Head of Safeguarding, Attendance and Inclusion (DSL)

We are seeking an exceptional safeguarding professional to join our Senior Leadership Team as our Strategic Safeguarding, Attendance and Family Support Manager (DSL). This is a rare opportunity to lead and shape safeguarding, attendance, family support and inclusion across a highly specialised and ambitious school community. The successful candidate will be the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and will play a pivotal role in driving strategic improvement, ensuring statutory compliance and improving outcomes for our most vulnerable children, young people and families. This role is much more than operational safeguarding. We are looking for an experienced leader who can think strategically, influence organisational change and provide expert leadership across safeguarding, attendance, inclusion and family support. About the Role As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will: Lead the school's safeguarding strategy and act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Develop and implement whole-school safeguarding, attendance and inclusion strategies Lead attendance improvement initiatives and drive reductions in persistent absence Manage and develop the Family Support Team and associated services Provide strategic leadership for Early Help and multi-agency working Lead safeguarding audits, compliance reviews and inspection readiness Analyse safeguarding, attendance and inclusion data to inform school improvement priorities Present strategic reports and recommendations to Governors, Trustees and senior leaders Manage delegated budgets and ensure resources are targeted effectively Develop and deliver staff training programmes across safeguarding, attendance and family support Lead quality assurance processes to ensure high standards of practice and compliance Support organisational risk management and contribute to whole-school strategic planning About You We are looking for someone who: Is an experienced Designated Safeguarding Lead or senior safeguarding professional Has a strong track record of improving outcomes for vulnerable children and families Has experience leading attendance, safeguarding or inclusion services Can confidently lead multi-agency partnerships and complex safeguarding responses Has experience managing staff and leading service development Can analyse complex data and translate findings into strategic action Is an excellent communicator who can influence, challenge and support others Has experience presenting reports and recommendations to senior leaders, governors or trustees Is passionate about inclusion, safeguarding and improving life chances for children and young people Come and help us ensure every child is safe, included, engaged and able to thrive. Saxon Hill Academy is a unique school for children and young people aged 2 to 19 who have complex needs and physical disabilities. We pride ourselves on providing an excellent all-round education which prepares our yo