Introduction to your role as DSL
🏷️ £90-180, with additional tickets from £45
🎥 Watch live or on catch up
Course outline:
Essential guidance, legislation and safeguarding practice for new Designated Safeguarding Leads
Stepping into the role of DSL is one of the most important and demanding responsibilities in any school. This comprehensive introductory course equips new DSLs with the confidence, clarity, and practical tools they need from day one. Inadequate DSL training is one of the most common causes of safeguarding failures, and the consequences for children and for the school can be immediate, serious and highly scrutinised.
Why schools should invest in this training for their new DSLs
Ensure legal compliance
Schools face an ever-evolving safeguarding landscape. This course breaks down statutory guidance, legislation and inspection expectations, helping new DSLs understand what “good” looks like, reducing risk and safeguarding the school’s reputation.
Build confident, competent safeguarding leaders
New DSLs often feel overwhelmed. We provide clear frameworks, real-world scenarios and step-by-step guidance so they can manage concerns, make safe decisions, and lead safeguarding practice effectively.
Strengthen whole-school safeguarding cultures
A well-trained DSL is central to robust safeguarding. Investing early ensures consistent, confident safeguarding responses across the staff team.
Reduce errors and escalate concerns appropriately
Mistakes in safeguarding can have serious consequences. This course equips new DSLs with the knowledge and judgement to recognise harm, respond correctly, document effectively, and work with external agencies.
Improve readiness for inspection
Ofsted, ISI and BSO inspections place strong emphasis on the DSL role. Completing this training ensures your DSL meets expectations and can evidence strong systems, policies and decision-making.
Course Highlights
- Understanding your statutory duties as DSL
- Key safeguarding legislation and current guidance
- Thresholds of need and making referrals
- Managing disclosures and recording concerns
- Working with social care, police and multi-agency partners
- Leading safeguarding practice and developing staff confidence
- Case studies, practical tools and downloadable resources
Give your new DSL the strongest possible start.
Invest in training that protects pupils and strengthens your school’s safeguarding culture.
Speaker:
Dale Wilkins, Executive Director, Scotland/Wales and Accredited/Compliance
Dale joined the BSA in 2017 to lead safeguarding, inspection, and compliance across the UK, building on his experience as a course tutor since 1998. He works closely with ISI, Ofsted, and DfE, and oversees the Group’s work in Scotland and Wales. A trainer and consultant for BSA and SACPA, Dale is Vice Chair of SAFCAB. Previously, he was a boarding practitioner for 31 years, including Housemaster and Deputy Head at Old Swinford Hospital. He also trains for the Methodist Church, is a trustee of the National Youth String Orchestra, chairs a performing arts charity, and volunteers in sport and Scouting.
