Designated Safeguarding Lead (Mander Portman Woodward – London)

We are seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Designated Safeguarding Lead who will provide proactive oversight of all safeguarding and child protection matters within the college. The successful candidate will bring excellent professional judgement and a deep understanding of statutory responsibilities. They will ensure that systems are robust, that concerns are managed promptly and appropriately, and that staff are guided and trained to maintain the highest standards of vigilance and care.

This position requires someone who can work sensitively with students, families and external agencies, lead on policy development and cultivate an environment in which the safety and wellbeing of every young person remain central to daily practice.

You will:

• Lead and coordinate safeguarding and child protection across the school.
• Act as the main point of contact for all safeguarding concerns, referrals, and multi-agency communication.
• Liaise closely with the Principal and Chair of Governors on safeguarding matters and provide written reports to the MPW Board.
• Work closely with IT department to monitor online activity and to develop strategies for keeping pupils safe online.
• Provide expert advice, training, and support to staff.
• Maintain high-quality, detailed safeguarding records and ensure compliance with statutory guidance.
• Oversee safeguarding policies, annual reviews, and preparation for ISI inspections.
• Lead on the Prevent Duty and identify pupils who may be at risk.
• Support vulnerable pupils and families with care, professionalism, and discretion.
• Act as a Director of Studies providing pastoral and academic support to approximately 25 students, including the writing of references, covering reports and other correspondence with parents and guardians

You have:

• In-depth knowledge of KCSIE, Working Together to Safeguard Children, Prevent Duty, and the Independent School Standards.
• Recent Level 3 (or equivalent) DSL training.
• Considerable experience working with children or young people in a safeguarding or pastoral capacity.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and decision-making skills.
• Calmness under pressure and the ability to handle sensitive information with integrity.
• Previous experience as a DSL or Deputy DSL in a school.
• Familiarity with ISI inspection requirements.
• Proven leadership or line management experience.
• An ability to plan strategically and to implement plans effectively.
• Reserves of energy, stamina and patience which allow you to manage a large operational portfolio reliably and efficiently.
• A high level of personal resilience to deal with challenging circumstances faced by pupils, families and staff.

• A competitive salary
• Guaranteed Income Protection with payment of 75% of your salary minus state benefits
• Life Assurance with payment of 4 times your salary
• Enrolment in an Aviva pension plan
• Mander Portman Woodward is committed to the safeguarding and promotion of the welfare of children and young people. Applicants for the role must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. Further details of what this includes are found in Recruitment, Selection and Disclosure Policy.