Overview
and Responsibilities
DSL, Pastoral and Welfare Lead
Make a Difference at Ryefields: Join Us as Our DSL, Pastoral and Welfare Lead!
Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for safeguarding and supporting the well-being of children? Do you want to play a vital role in the lives of students with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs? If so, Ryefields is the perfect place for you!
Position: DSL, Pastoral and Welfare Lead ( months maternity cover)
Location: Ryefields, Derby
Salary: £. to £. p/hr. Actual salary £, to £, per annum - depending on skills and experience
Contract Type: Full-time, 1 year contract to cover maternity
Start Date: Ideally June 6
About Ryefields
Ryefields is a new, purpose-built special school in Derby, designed to provide outstanding education and support for children and young people with ASC and SEMH needs. Our mission is to create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
As the DSL, Pastoral and Welfare Lead, you will be at the heart of ensuring our students’ safety, well-being, and holistic development.
The Role
In this pivotal role, you will oversee safeguarding, pastoral care, and welfare provision across the school. Your responsibilities will include:
1. Acting as the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensuring all safeguarding policies and procedures are effectively implemented.
2. Leading on child protection matters, managing referrals, and liaising with external agencies.
3. Developing and implementing the school’s pastoral care framework to support students’ social, emotional, and mental health needs.
4. Building strong relationships with students, families, and staff to promote well-being and a positive school culture.
5. Providing training and guidance to staff on safeguarding and pastoral matters.
6. Monitoring attendance, behaviour, and welfare data to identify and address areas of concern.
7. Leading initiatives to foster resilience, independence, and positive relationships among students.
Skills and Qualifications
What We’re Looking For
8. Significant experience in a safeguarding role, ideally in a school or similar setting.
9. A thorough understanding of safeguarding legislation, including KCSIE (Keeping Children Safe in Education).
10. Experience working with children with ASC, SEMH, or other complex needs.
11. Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
12. The ability to remain calm under pressure and handle sensitive situations with discretion and empathy.
13. Relevant qualifications in safeguarding, social work, or pastoral care are highly desirable.
Benefits and Additional Information
What Ryefields Offers
14. The chance to be part of a founding team in a brand-new, purpose-built special school.
15. A supportive and forward-thinking leadership team.
16. Comprehensive training and professional development, including SEND-specific and safeguarding training.
17. Access to state-of-the-art facilities designed for children with ASC and SEMH needs.
18. The rewarding experience of making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and their families.
Benefits and Additional Information
19. Perkbox Discounts – save on groceries, dining, gym memberships & more.
20. Wagestream App – access part of your pay early.
21. Enhanced Annual Leave, Pension & Sick Pay.
22. /7 GP Access for you and your household.
23. Health Cash Plan – cover dental and optical costs.
24. Employee Assistance Programme – confidential wellbeing support.
25. Refer a Friend Bonus – earn £1,.
How to Apply
If you are enthusiastic about making a difference and excited to be part of the Ryefields team, we’d love to hear from you!
For candidates that haven’t worked in this sector before please be aware that the application process is far more detailed and thorough compared to other sectors.
Please complete an online application form in full, remembering to include all employment and education details and a personal statement that will make us really keen to speak to you. If you need any assistance or would like any more information, please contact Karen in the Aurora Group Recruitment Team at