Safeguarding Officer

Job overviewThe Royal Alexandra and Albert School exists to give our children a distinctly different start in life, preparing them for the world with hope, optimism, compassion and empathy. We are a coeducational, non-selective state boarding school, for boys and girls aged 7 – 18. This is a boarding school with Flexi Boarding students attending from the local area and a lively community of around 400 Full Boarders, heavily involved in a wide range of after-school and weekend activities and trips.Our Ofsted inspection of March 2024 states ”pupils are happy and well cared for at Royal Alexandra and Albert School. They benefit from positive relationships with staff across the school. Pupils feel safe, confident that if they report any concerns or worries they will be dealt with”.We offerProfessional, supportive and committed staff teamBeautiful estate set in 260 acres of parklandConvenient location, close to the A23 and M25Free on-site parkingThe RoleThis is a significant opportunity to join the Royal Alexandra and Albert School at a pivotal time for our Safeguarding team. We are looking for a practitioner who understands that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and who operates with the unwavering mindset that “it could and does happen here.”We are seeking a candidate who:Exhibits relentless professional curiosity and notices the subtle shifts in a child’s baseline behaviour.Advocates for a “Think Family” approach, understanding that adult stressors are often the root of a child’s change in demeanour.Expertly delivers factual, evidence-led documentation, ensuring the child’s voice and lived experience remain central to every record.Thrives in a large-team environment, coordinating with our 14 Deputy DSLs to maintain a culture of vigilance.Current Information on the Safeguarding TeamThe Deputy Head Pastoral serves as our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), leading a robust team dedicated to ensuring all children and young adults at RAAS are protected.The Safeguarding Officer is a central leadership figure within this hub, overseeing the triage of incoming concerns and the strategic allocation of CPOMS referrals to the relevant members of our 14-strong Deputy DSL team.You will work in a high-collaboration environment alongside our Counsellors, Health Centre staff, Pastoral team, and SENCo. We don’t just “do” safeguarding; we live a culture of safety that extends across our boarding and day provision.You will need to have the commitment and enthusiasm to contribute to the success of a dynamic, well managed and successful team.We reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date of the advertisement.We hope that after considering all the information provided, you will decide to make an application. Please be advised that we may interview as applications come in. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly after the closing date. Whatever the outcome of your application we thank you for the interest you have shown and wish you well in your future career.