Safeguarding Officer

Qualifications

Five A*- C grades at GCSE including English and Maths or equivalent - Essential

Level 4 qualification or higher in a relevant field (e.g. safeguarding, education, social care) - Essential

A degree in social work or similar or an equivalent qualification or experience in a social work role - Desirable

Safeguarding training/qualification - Desirable

Social Work England registered - Desirable

Experience, Knowledge and Skills

Have the experience, confidence and expertise to take responsibility for, and take the lead on, providing and coordinating services for students with more complex needs. Whilst you will provide updates to senior staff and will work as part of a team, you need to be able to work autonomously, exercising sound balanced judgment - Essential

Significant previous experience as a social worker or similar role (public, private or voluntary sector), including working with complex family situations/cases and with vulnerable children and teenagers; including experience of making home visits - Essential

The ability to work meticulously, keeping detailed and fully accurate records and notes - critical to this role - Essential

Excellent communication skills, including diplomacy and tact. Able to communicate effectively with staff, students, parents and external stakeholders and build positive relationships - Essential

Ability to work under pressure, remain calm, take criticism and remain resilient, even in challenging situations. Robust constitution and stamina including a good record of attendance and health - Essential

Integrity, honesty and aligned with Academy and Trust’s vision and values - Essential

Comfortable managing a diverse caseload and adopting a flexible working approach. Open to change - Essential

Excellent organisational, prioritisation and administrative skills including the ability to consistently work to deadlines. Sound IT skills - Essential

Counselling skills including active listening & non-judgemental approach - Essential

Access to / use of a vehicle which can be used for home visits - Essential

Experience of carrying out needs assessments, preparing plans and monitoring and reviewing outcomes - Essential

Knowledge of SEND and the 4 areas of need in ‘SEND Code of Practice’ - Desirable

Knowledge of successful attendance interventions - Desirable

Commitment to professional development, with a healthy attitude to personal development and work-life balance - Essential

Experience in behaviour management for identified pupils - Desirable

Knowledge of risk assessments - Desirable

Ability to build relationships quickly with young people and go “the extra mile” to support pupils. Ability to instil learning resilience and confidence in pupils - Essential

Commitment to staff welfare, including being understanding, supportive and able to maintain confidentiality - Essential

Commitment to safeguarding, equal opportunities and the equal value of all members of the school community - Essential