Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead and Student Welfare Officer

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead and Student Welfare OfficerHours: 37 hours per week, 41 weeks per year (Term time plus 5 training days, and 10 additional days) 8am - 4pm, Monday-Thursday and until 3.30pm on a Friday.We are looking for a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead and Student Welfare Officer to join Nene Park Academy. This is an incredibly rewarding role, working within a supportive team and a part of the wider Meridian Trust family. You will be responsible for safeguarding and child protection across the Academy by recording and attending professional meetings and making referrals where necessary.The successful candidate will have a positive, enthusiastic approach to work, have excellent communication skills and a good understanding of the education system.The OpportunitySupport families to be the best parents they can be so that they are able to support their child’s learning and wellbeing.Responsible for working with wider pastoral teams in school to support the welfare and wellbeing of students.Be designated safeguarding lead for the school, overseeing the child protection work and cause for concern records for the whole academy.To action caseloads as assigned by the DSL.Promote Child Protection Awareness within the Academies, offering guidance on the Framework for Assessment of Need.The ideal candidateEducated to degree level or equivalent.Trained DSL with relevant experience of being a DSL.Experience of working with children across all key stages.About Meridian Trust –Meridian Trust is a values-led organisation formed in 2011 that has risen to be one of the highest-performing academy trusts in the country. The Trust is founded on its commitment to a high-quality educational provision for all at the heart of local communities. Meridian currently operates primary, secondary and special schools across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.Meridian Trust offers a wealth of fantastic benefits for teaching and support staff which are highlighted below but are not limited to -Apprenticeship and CPD opportunities which allow you to gain specialist knowledge in a role you are passionate about developing inOpportunity to jump start your career in teaching through our dedicated Initial Teacher Training Team (ITT)Support for mental health and wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme and other resourcesCycle to work schemeDefined benefit local government or Teacher’s pension schemeHealthcare benefits including free eye test vouchers and flu vaccinationsFree on-site parkingDiscounts on a wide range of benefits from everyday essentials to holidaysTo explore our full range of benefits, please visit https://www.meridiantrust.co.uk/jobs-and-training/benefits/.Closing date for applications: 9am Monday 15th December 2025Interviews dates TBC. Meridian Trust reserves the right to close the applications early in the event that a suitable candidate is sourced. Applications will be reviewed as received so please apply early to avoid disappointmentThe Trust is committed to diversity and inclusion and equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to pre-employment checks, including an enhanced check with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), as well as online searches.