Designated Safeguarding Lead

Rochester Grammar School are seeking a Designated Safeguarding Lead to take responsibility for all safeguarding and child protection matters arising at the school, together with supporting other staff in dealing with any child protection concerns that arise. The successful candidate will be responsible for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons for who they are responsible, and with whom they come into contact. They will also be available for staff to discuss any safeguarding concerns. 

The successful candidate will have experience of working with children, young people and families, dealing with barriers to education, together with a knowledge and understanding of safeguarding procedures, child protection issues and law and regulations governing the employment of children, and of statutory legislation, guidelines and policies on attendance.  Working knowledge of the school exclusion process and procedures would be desirable.  They will be able to work as part of a team, and openly and collaboratively with multi-agency colleagues, while applying the principles of confidentiality.  Excellent time management skills to enable strict deadlines to be met are a requirement alongside effective analytical skills and problem solving. 

The Rochester Grammar School staff are dedicated to our ethos of “excellence for all” and we have the highest expectation for all our learners. We are a proud International Baccalaureate World School. Our students study the IB Diploma at Sixth Form and go on to attend outstanding universities. 

"What I enjoy most about the RGS Sixth Form is the support from the teachers and how passionate they are about their subjects". - Mabel, current sixth form student 

Rochester Grammar School is a high-performing secondary which is part of the TSA Trust, a family of schools that work together to “improve the life chances”. The school achieved the UNICEF Bronze Rights Respecting School Award in September 2021. RGS is a school where diversity is celebrated as we create a safe and inspiring place for children to learn, where their rights are respected and they are able to develop their talents and abilities to their full potential. 

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust 

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools consisting of both primary and secondary schools across Kent, Essex, Hampshire and Devon.

We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances. Education is the key to transforming life chances and we support and develop every member of our community to:

• Think about their Thinking
• Be their Best self
• Shape their Success

What our Trust will offer you:

• Competitive Pay Scales: Our TSAT pay scales exceed national standards.
• Collaborative Support: Benefit from resources, mentoring, and school visits across the Trust to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Pension Scheme Membership: Secure your future with membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Fitness and Wellness: Enjoy reduced membership fees for our fully-equipped fitness suite and classes, conveniently located at New Horizons Children’s Academy and Rochester Grammar School.
• Staff Wellbeing Focus: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations, and eye care vouchers.
• Convenient Parking: Park for free in our secure staff car park.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promote health and sustainability through our Cycle to Work initiative.
• TSTARS Staff Recognition: Be part of our Staff Recognition Programme, with seasonal rewards for all staff.
• Refer a Friend: Spread the word and benefit from our Refer a Friend Scheme

What you need to do now:

If you are interested in joining our team of supportive colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today. 

Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found.

To arrange an informal conversation about this role please contact Ruth Rivers via email ([email protected]).

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process, please email [email protected]