Designated Safeguarding Lead

Paignton Academy are seeking to appoint a Designated Safeguarding Lead, to take lead responsibility for all safeguarding and child protection matters arising at the school.  Our DSL will be responsible for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young people across the academy.  You will also support other staff in dealing with any child protection concerns that arise, and will be available for staff to discuss any safeguarding concerns.

Our Designated Safeguarding Lead will have:

• Experience of working with children, young people and families and dealing with barriers to education.
• Knowledge, experience and understanding of safeguarding procedures and child protection issues
• Working knowledge of school exclusion processes and procedures would be desirable
• The ability to work as part of a team, and openly and collaboratively with multi-agency colleagues, while applying the principles of confidentiality 

At Paignton Academy, we focus on developing well-rounded students who excel academically and grow socially, emotionally, and morally. We inspire our students to be kind, resilient, and responsible, preparing them to face challenges and contribute positively to society.

Why Paignton Academy?

• Strong Relationships: We value respectful connections between students, staff, and parents, working together to ensure student success.
• Love of Learning: We foster a passion for lifelong learning, helping students grow into curious, well-rounded individuals.
• Community & Pride: We instill pride in both our school and the local community, empowering students to make a positive impact.

Why Work With Us?

• A supportive, collaborative environment that encourages professional growth.
• Access to unlimited development opportunities through the Thinking Schools Academy Trust.
• A commitment to well-being, ensuring a positive and rewarding work experience.
• A shared vision of success, with a focus on helping every student achieve their very best.

If you're passionate about shaping young lives and helping students reach their full potential, come join our team at Paignton Academy!

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust

The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England, consisting of early years, primary, secondary and specialist provision. 

We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances.  That’s why we invest in our people and are recognised as the Multi Academy Trust Association Employer of the Year for 2025/2026, so that our staff are best supported to positively impact our pupils. 

Learn more about our Vision and Values here

Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?

We’re proud to offer more than just a job—we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff:

• Competitive Pay Scales: Our TSAT pay scales exceed national levels.
• Performance Related Pay: We operate a Professional Growth policy that allows us to reward staff who meet their objectives with additional pay for exceptional performance.
• CPD: Our in-house training provision, Thinking Horizons, offers clear pathways for professional development including Chartered Teacher status, regular MAT meets to share best practice and range of external opportunities to enhance your development.
• Staff Wellbeing Focus: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations, eye care vouchers and preferential access to Benenden Health.
• TSTARS Staff Recognition: You will be part of our Staff Recognition Programme, with seasonal rewards for all staff.
• Refer a Friend: Spread the word and benefit financially from our Refer a Friend Scheme.
• Blue Light Card: School staff can now access the Blue Light Card for discounts across a wide range of categories including holidays, cars, days out and much more!
• Convenient Parking: Park for free in our staff car park on-site.
• TSAT Benefits Portal: a one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including employee discounts, dental cover, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.

Next Steps

If you are interested in working at our school, benefitting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today! 

Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.

We strongly encourage anyone who may be interested in working at our school to contact Sara Robotham (Office Manager) via email [email protected] to arrange an informal conversation about the role.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process, please email [email protected]