Senior Pastoral Lead (DSL)

For every journey, let's take first steps together.

At First Steps Together, we believe every child and young person deserves to feel safe, listened to, supported and able to succeed .

We are a growing group of specialist independent schools supporting children and young people with SEND, SEMH and complex presentations . We create calm, consistent and inclusive environments where strong relationships, high expectations and effective safeguarding help pupils overcome barriers and engage successfully in education.

As our Education provision grows, we are looking for an experienced and committed Senior Pastoral Lead (DSL) to lead safeguarding, attendance and pastoral practice within the school. You will work alongside a second Senior Pastoral Lead (DSL) reporting to the Headteacher.

What you'll be doing

As the school's Designated Safeguarding Lead , you'll take the lead on safeguarding and child protection, managing concerns, referrals and records while providing clear advice and guidance to colleagues. You'll help build a strong safeguarding culture where pupils feel safe, listened to and confident that concerns will be acted upon.

You'll lead on attendance and engagement , monitoring attendance, identifying patterns and emerging concerns, and working closely with pupils and families to understand and overcome barriers to education.

Alongside this, you'll provide relational pastoral support to pupils, particularly during periods of dysregulation, transition or change, and work closely with SEND colleagues to ensure support is coordinated around each pupil's individual needs.

You'll work closely with families, colleagues and multi-agency professionals , contribute to support plans and risk assessments and help colleagues develop confident and consistent safeguarding and pastoral practice.

Bring your difference

We're looking for someone with substantial experience of working with children and young people, including those with SEND, SEMH or complex needs , alongside proven experience of managing safeguarding concerns, referrals, child protection records and multi-agency working.

You'll have strong safeguarding knowledge and the confidence to advise colleagues, challenge practice and elevate concerns appropriately . You'll be calm and professional when dealing with sensitive situations, with strong judgement, organisation and record-keeping skills.

You'll bring empathy, resilience and professional curiosity , combining positive relationships with clear boundaries and high expectations for every pupil. Previous experience as a DSL or Deputy DSL would be an advantage.

Why First Steps Together?

You'll join a supportive and growing specialist education group in a rewarding school-based role where you'll take responsibility for leading your own area of practice .

We'll provide comprehensive induction and ongoing support, alongside training and development in safeguarding, SEND, attendance and pastoral practice , with opportunities for continued professional development and career progression.

Bring your difference. Take your next step with First Steps Together.

Safeguarding

First Steps Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Appointment to this role will be subject to appropriate safer recruitment and pre-employment checks, including an Enhanced DBS, satisfactory references, online checks and overseas police checks where required.

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