Senior Safeguarding Officer; DDSL; SC

We are looking for a committed and knowledgeable Senior Safeguarding Officer (Deputy DSL) to join our team. This is a key position that supports the Designated Safeguarding Lead in ensuring the welfare, safety, and wellbeing of children and young people, whilst fully supporting the wider Safeguarding team.

This is a full time, permanent role, working 37 hours per week across 52 weeks. The role will be based at Southampton College.

The successful candidate will work closely with staff, families, and external agencies to ensure safeguarding concerns are identified, managed, and escalated appropriately. They will play an important role in strengthening our safeguarding culture and contributing to the development and implementation of effective safeguarding practices.

Working hours are Monday to Thursday, 8:30am-5:00pm and Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm.

• Work closely alongside the DSL; supporting the Designated Safeguarding Lead in all aspects of safeguarding and child protection across the group.
• Manage safeguarding concerns; record, monitor, and respond to concerns in line with statutory guidance and organisational procedures.
• Work with external agencies; liaise with children's services, police, health professionals, and other partners where required.
• Advise and guide staff; provide clear, timely advice to colleagues on safeguarding matters.
• Support training and awareness; assist in delivering safeguarding training and promoting a strong safeguarding culture.
• Attend key meetings; participate in safeguarding meetings, case conferences, and multi‑agency discussions as appropriate.
• Support vulnerable pupils; contribute to attendance, wellbeing, and early‑help initiatives for children and young people at risk.
• Promote a safe environment; help ensure the organisation remains safe, inclusive, and supportive for all.

You will be an organised, empathetic, and resilient professional with experience in safeguarding and working with vulnerable individuals. You will be confident managing sensitive situations and working collaboratively across teams and agencies.

• Level 3 or above trained in safeguarding and willing to undertake further professional development.
• Confident and supportive team player, who will work well with immediate safeguarding colleagues and contribute positively to the wider team.
• Has relevant experience working with children, young people, or vulnerable individuals.
• Understands safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance, and can apply it confidently in practice.
• Communicates effectively and demonstrates strong organisational and record‑keeping skills.
• Builds positive relationships with students, families, colleagues, and external partners.
• Handles sensitive situations professionally, showing discretion, empathy, and sound judgement.

• A qualification or training in mental health (e.g., Mental Health First Aid or equivalent).
• Knowledge of, or experience working within, local communities and support networks, including understanding of community‑based services available to young people and families.

• The College is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be required to undergo relevant pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.

Week commencing 17th August 2026