Leading Safeguarding (Short Course)
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Course Summary
Safeguarding children and young people is a fundamental responsibility of providers of education (schools, colleges, universities, training providers) and is usually led by a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) within an extended team.
It is central to many aspects of the provider's life, from individual student welfare to the inspection regime. DSLs (and associated colleagues) have a range of responsibilities including that of leading safeguarding in education settings. However, while training exists for operational issues within safeguarding, DSLs do not routinely undertake specific leadership development aimed at helping them become more effective and establishing robust safeguarding cultures in their organisation.
This short course aims to develop the leadership capacity of those in educational settings with responsibility for safeguarding children and young people. The course will situate safeguarding within a broader leadership landscape, enabling relevant professionals to enhance their practice, deepen their understanding, and exert greater influence within education, all of which will result in enhanced safeguarding practices.
Develop Your Leadership Capacity
Achieve 10 Master's Level Credits
Evidence-Based Practices and Real-World Application
Course Dates
5 Sessions across:
- Wednesday 15th October 2025 5.30-7.30pm
- Wednesday 5th November 2025 5.30-7.30pm
- Wednesday 12th November 2025 5.30-7.30pm
- Wednesday 26th November 2025 5.30-7.30pm
- Wednesday 10th December 2025 5.30-7.30pm
What You'll Study
In this short course, you will consider the pivotal role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in educational settings. You will explore leadership styles and actions relevant to safeguarding, learning to cultivate a robust safeguarding culture within your organisation. The curriculum emphasises strategies for developing colleagues' safeguarding practices through effective professional learning initiatives. You will examine policies and practices surrounding safeguarding, as well as techniques for monitoring and evaluating safeguarding. By taking part in this short course, you will be equipped to lead safeguarding initiatives, promote best practices, and foster safe environments for children, young people and vulnerable adults.
The teaching methods for this course include a combination of interactive lectures, group discussions, and hands-on workshops to facilitate a deep understanding of leading safeguarding. Students will engage in case study analyses, and reflective discussions to apply theoretical concepts to real life situations.
Entry Requirements
This Postgraduate-level short course will benefit anyone with an interest in leading safeguarding in educational environments.
You will ideally have:
- A Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
- Experience working in either a formal or informal education setting.
Please note:
If you do not meet the academic requirements detailed above but have at least 3 years of relevant work experience and have evidence of recent study or professional development (to demonstrate an ability to study at Level 7) we may consider your application.
In addition, for international students: Minimum requirement IELTS level 6.5
Job Prospects
Completing this course will position you as a knowledgeable and skilled leader in safeguarding within educational settings. You'll gain expertise in navigating frameworks, ensuring compliance, and promoting a culture of safeguarding.
This specialism can lead to increased opportunities for advancement, such as assuming roles as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or other leadership positions within educational institutions. Your ability to develop colleagues' safeguarding practices and establish robust safeguarding cultures will be highly valued, making you an asset in promoting the well-being and protection of children and young people.