KCSIE states that:

• The designated safeguarding lead (and any deputies) should undergo training to provide them with the knowledge and skills required to carry out the role

• This training should be updated at least every two years

• The designated safeguarding lead should undertake Prevent awareness training

• Training should provide designated safeguarding leads with a god understanding of their own tole, and the processes, procedures and responsibilities of other agencies, particularly children’s social care

In order to meet these statutory requirements, we have been prompted to transform the way in which DSL training is delivered. We have there adopted a modular approach to DSL training whereby DSLs can choose which ever modules enable them to undertake their role effectively. This can be dependant on their responsibilities, areas of expertise and prior knowledge and experience in the role. We do recommend that new DSLs attend Modules 1 & 2. Modules 3 & 4 can be used as DSL refresher training of for more experienced DSLs. Attendance at any two modules equates to a full day’s training and this is the minimum requirement in order to get DSL training certification from Schools Safeguarding. Additional modules can be attended as required.

Module 1 – Managing Concerns and Referrals – 17th May 9:00am-12:00pm

This module is ideal for new or inexperienced DSLs but would also be of benefit to experienced DSLs who manage concerns and make referrals. The training includes:

• Speaking with parents and pupils about safeguarding issues including having difficult conversations

• Managing safeguarding concerns internally and with the support of the universal services

• Working with other services to provide Early Help, including undertaking assessments (CAFs)

• Making referrals to Children’s Social Care and the Police for Children in Need and Children in Need of Protection from Abuse including Online and Peer on Peer

Module 2 – Contributing to Safeguarding Meetings – 19th May 1:00pm-4:00pm

This module is ideal for new or inexperienced DSLs but would also be of benefit to experienced DSLs who manage, attend or facilitate meetings and produce reports. This training includes:

• How to prepare for and contribute to Safeguarding Meetings including:

o Early Help / Team Around the Family (TAF) Meetings

o Child in Need Meetings

o Strategy Meetings / Discussions

o Child Protection Conferences

o Core Group Meetings

• Report writing for safeguarding meetings

• Writing and contributing to children’s plans at all levels of the Continuum of Need

Module 3 – Whole School Safeguarding Systems – 24th May 9:00am-12:00pm

This module is ideal for DSLs with strategic responsibility such as Headteachers or experienced DSLs. This module focuses on ensuring systems are in place that help create a culture and ethos of safeguarding. This training includes:

• An explanation of the DSL role and how this works in practice

• Gaining and understanding of Legislation and Statutory Guidance and how this impacts on school policies, procedures and practice

• The statutory requirements relating to Safeguarding Induction and Training and how to meet and evidence these

• How to ensure good quality record keeping and get the most out of your record keeping system

• How to support staff with safeguarding issues including developing supervision

Module 4 – Specific and Complex Safeguarding Issues – 26th May 1:00pm-4:00pm

This module is ideal for new or experienced DSLs to increase awareness and understanding of those aspects of safeguarding that are new or complex in their presentation. The training includes managing and understanding:

• Fabricated or Induced Illness and Perplexing Presentations

• Honour Based Abuse Including Female Genital Mutilation and Forced Marriage

• Modern Slavery and Child Trafficking

• Any other school safeguarding issues that DSLs wish to discuss including:

o Cases that don’t meet threshold

o Professional Disputes / Disagreements

o Contact issues

These four modules are available remotely via Zoom at a cost of £100 per person per module. Each delegate must complete two modules in order to obtain their DSL Training Certificate.

For more information please contact admin@schoolssafeguarding.com