Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL)

At OFG we allow for greater work life balance and extra time to do the things you love outside work Job Title: DDSL with expansive duties Location: Wessex Lodge School, Frome, Somerset BA11 4LA Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday–Friday Salary: From £26,000 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata) Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only plus 21 days Start: July 2026 UK applicants only – no sponsorship available About the Role At Wessex Lodge School, safeguarding isn't simply a responsibility – it's at the heart of everything we do. We're seeking a compassionate, proactive and highly organised Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) to join our Welfare Team and play a pivotal role in ensuring that every child and young person in our care feels safe, supported and empowered to thrive. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about safeguarding and wants to make a meaningful difference within a specialist educational setting. As part of our Middle Leadership Team, you'll work closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team to champion a culture of vigilance, care and high expectations across the school. As DDSL, you will be the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns within your designated site, leading the day-to-day operational response while working under the guidance and oversight of the DSL. You'll monitor and triage concerns using our safeguarding reporting platform, SLEUTH, ensuring all safeguarding records, actions and interventions are accurate, timely and compliant. You'll also support colleagues through challenging situations, provide safeguarding advice and contribute to the wider strategic development of safeguarding, welfare and inclusion across the school. While this is a predominantly non-teaching role, there may be occasions where you'll support targeted interventions within the classroom to meet the needs of pupils. Previous experience in a school setting is desirabl