Safeguarding Officer

Sandwell College is seeking a dedicated and proactive Safeguarding Officer to join our high-performing Safeguarding team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about protecting and supporting young people and vulnerable adults within an educational setting.

As a key member of the Safeguarding Team, you will provide a responsive and professional service to learners, ensuring concerns are addressed promptly, appropriately, and in line with statutory responsibilities. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have strong communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills, we would love to hear from you.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Act as a Safeguarding Officer, responding to student disclosures, safeguarding concerns, and internal/external incidents

• Collect and collate information by liaising with colleagues and external partners

• Gather evidence proactively, including CCTV and social media content, to support the prevention and detection of crime

• Work collaboratively with the Safeguarding Lead and wider team to manage safeguarding cases and put measures in place to keep learners safe

• Manage a caseload of students with complex safeguarding needs, including Child Protection and Child in Need cases

• Serve as a key point of contact for parents/carers, social workers, YOT workers, and external agencies, attending professional meetings as required

• Support staff and managers with safeguarding queries in line with College policy

• Maintain accurate and confidential safeguarding records using specialist software

• Work closely with Security, Student Support Officers, and Behaviour Wardens to maintain a safe campus environment

• Develop and deliver resources and training that promote safeguarding, equality, respect, and British Values

• Undertake additional duties as required by the Designated Safeguarding Lead

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

We are looking for someone who has:

Essential:

• Level 3 qualification in child safeguarding (or willingness to complete within a set timeframe)

• GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above

• Recent experience in a similar role such as Safeguarding, Student Services/Support or a service role requiring strong communication at all levels

• Experience supporting learners in an educational environment

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Experience handling and recording confidential information

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Understanding of how to promote positive behaviour and attitudes

• Excellent administrative, organisational, and workload-management skills

• Ability to work in challenging environments and respond professionally to confrontation

• Willingness to be "on call" to respond to safeguarding concerns

Desirable:

• Demonstrable commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people

Benefits

✔ Top-Tier Salaries – Sector-leading and highly competitive

🏖 Unbeatable Time Off – 35–50 days annual leave + bank holidays + Christmas closure

🚀 Fast-Track Your Career – Development days, pathways & talent schemes

🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme – Greener, healthier commuting

💆‍♀️ Exclusive Onsite Discounts – Hair & beauty, dog grooming, car checks & more

🏋 Fitness Perks – Access to our gym or discounted local memberships

💰 Generous Pension Contributions – 21.5% employer contribution (non-teaching)

🛍 Retail & Travel Discounts – High street brands, transport, UNiDAYS, Blue Light & more

📜 Free Will Writing

💉 Free Flu Vaccine

🧘 Wellbeing Support – Confidential counselling & wellness platforms

🏆 We Celebrate You! – Recognition events, awards & celebration days