Trust Safeguarding Lead

Please note that applications will be reviewed as received and should a suitable candidate be identified, we may close the vacancy early. Therefore, early application is encouraged.

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most

We are seeking an exceptional and dedicated Trust Safeguarding Lead to champion safeguarding across our family of schools. This is a pivotal leadership role for a passionate safeguarding professional who is committed to ensuring every child and young person is safe, supported, and able to thrive.

You will:

• Lead and develop safeguarding strategy across the Trust.
• Provide expert guidance on safeguarding, child protection, attendance, behaviour, and wider welfare matters.
• Support and challenge schools to ensure the highest standards of safeguarding practice and compliance.
• Deliver training, coaching, and professional development to safeguarding teams and leaders.
• Monitor safeguarding effectiveness through audits, reviews, and quality assurance processes.
• Build strong relationships with local authorities, safeguarding partnerships, and external agencies.
• Keep abreast of legislative and regulatory developments, ensuring Trust policies and practices remain current and effective.

We are looking for an experienced safeguarding professional who:

• Has substantial experience in safeguarding and child protection, ideally within education or a multi-site organisation.
• Possesses excellent knowledge of safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance, and best practice.
• Can influence, support, and challenge leaders at all levels.
• Has outstanding communication, relationship‑building, and organisational skills.
• Is passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people.
• Can work strategically while maintaining a strong operational focus.

• A meaningful leadership role with Trust‑wide impact.
• The opportunity to shape and strengthen safeguarding practice across multiple schools.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Ongoing professional development and leadership opportunities.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Employee Assistance programme.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Menopause support network.
• Discounts for teachers, Blue Light Discount, and Eye Care Vouchers.
• Excellent Pension Scheme with employer contributions above national standards.
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies, including maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental leave.
• An additional White Horse concessionary day’s leave per year.
• Access to up‑to‑date training on safeguarding and child protection, including ongoing updates on statutory safeguarding guidance and legislation.
• CPD Programme.

The White Horse Federation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. If successful for this role, you will be expected to apply for a disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service before an appointment is confirmed. Please note that references will be sought on shortlisted candidates before the interview.

The White Horse Federation values uniqueness and recognises the benefit of having a diverse workforce. We value the contributions of all staff from a wide range of backgrounds and we are committed to building an inclusive workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. At The White Horse Federation, we believe that everyone should be treated with fairness and respect and share a commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at all of our schools.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and operate a fair recruitment process, free from discrimination against protected characteristics, in line with the Equality Act 2010.