Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) & Attendance Officer
Alternative Provision - Swadlincote
Fixed Term: 12 Months | 45 Weeks per Year
Derbyshire Support Staff Grade 10
Are you an experienced safeguarding professional with a strong background in education? Do you have the confidence and expertise to lead on safeguarding and attendance within an Alternative Provision setting?
Tradewind Recruitment are working in partnership with an Alternative Provision in Swadlincote to recruit a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Attendance Officer for a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is a vital role supporting some of the most vulnerable learners, ensuring safeguarding, attendance, and pupil welfare remain at the heart of the provision.
This position is 45 weeks per year - term time plus an additional 6 weeks during school holidays, where you will be on-call for safeguarding matters. Holiday cover can be completed from home and does not require on-site attendance.
About the Role
As the DSL & Attendance Officer, you will take strategic and operational responsibility for safeguarding and attendance across the provision. You will work closely with senior leaders, external agencies, families, and pupils to ensure the highest standards of care, safety, and engagement.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead, with responsibility for all safeguarding and child protection matters.
* Lead safeguarding practice during Ofsted inspections and external reviews.
* Manage referrals to external agencies (Social Care, Early Help, Police, CAMHS, etc.).
* Maintain accurate safeguarding records in line with statutory guidance.
* Monitor, track, and improve pupil attendance, including working with families and agencies to reduce persistent absence.
* Support pupils facing barriers to attendance and engagement.
* Provide safeguarding advice, guidance, and training to staff.
* Ensure safeguarding policies and procedures are up to date and compliant with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).
Requirements
* Significant experience in safeguarding, ideally as a DSL or Deputy DSL within an education setting.
* Strong understanding of statutory safeguarding guidance and multi‑agency working.
* Experience working with vulnerable pupils, including those in Alternative Provision or SEN settings (highly desirable).
* Confidence leading safeguarding processes during Ofsted inspections.
* Excellent communication, organisation, and record‑keeping skills.
* Ability to work independently and make professional judgements under pressure.
* Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one).
About Tradewind Recruitment
Tradewind Recruitment is one of the UK's leading education recruitment agencies, specialising in matching skilled education professionals with rewarding roles across schools, academies, and alternative provisions. We pride ourselves on our honest, supportive approach and long‑standing relationships with schools and trusts nationwide.
Contact Ben Moses on (phone number removed) for more information.
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