Safeguarding Officer at Sandwell College

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 – We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around

🏖 Unbeatable Time Off – Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays AND extra time off at Christmas – because work-life balance is essential

🚀 Fast-Track Your Career – Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed

🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme – A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute

💆‍♀️ Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services – Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more

🏋 Fitness Perks – Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best

💰 Generous Pension Contributions – We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles

🛍 Retail & Travel Discounts – Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount

📜 Free Will Writing – We’ve got your back with professional support for your future planning

💉 Free Flu Vaccine – Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you

🧘 Wellbeing Support – Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health

🏆 We Celebrate You! – We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year