Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead & Early Years Educator

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead & Early Years Educator

Location: Muddy Boots Acomb

Salary: Up to £14.05 per hour

About The Role

This is a hybrid position. Two days each week are protected non‑contact time, dedicated to safeguarding leadership – casework, multi‑agency liaison, and supporting families with active concerns. The other two days, you’ll be in the room as part of the educator team, working directly with children and modelling great practice.

Your safeguarding days will include:

• Leading day‑to‑day case management for safeguarding concerns at Acomb, maintaining accurate records and clear chronologies
• Acting as a key liaison with Children’s Social Care, the LADO, MASH, health visitors, family support workers and Early Help teams
• Attending and contributing to multi‑agency meetings (TAF, CIN, child protection conferences)
• Leading on Early Help assessments and the drafting and review of individual support plans
• Running safeguarding supervision with room leads holding active cases
• Being a consistent point of contact for parents engaging with services, alongside the Nursery Manager
• Managing the early stages of allegations against staff, escalating in line with policy
• Coordinating online safety, Prevent duty, and Operation Encompass at site level
• Maintaining the staff safeguarding training matrix and delivering in‑house refreshers
• Conducting quarterly safeguarding file audits and reporting to group leadership
• Staying current on legislation, guidance, and local safeguarding partnership procedures

Your room days will include:

• Planning and delivering engaging learning activities, with a strong focus on outdoor play and exploration
• Observing, assessing and supporting children’s individual learning journeys
• Acting as a key person and building strong, trusting relationships with families
• Creating a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment
• Working collaboratively as part of a positive, supportive team
• Being responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in your care

We’re Looking For Someone Who

• Holds a Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent)
• Has substantial early years experience, ideally with exposure to safeguarding cases, Early Help or supporting vulnerable families
• Communicates clearly in writing – case notes, referrals and support plans need to be accurate and concise
• Has the calm and confidence to handle difficult conversations with parents and staff
• Is resilient – safeguarding work carries emotional weight, and the role suits people who can carry that thoughtfully
• Is organised, methodical and discreet with confidential information
• Is a reflective practitioner who actively seeks supervision and feedback
• Shares our values and commitment to high‑quality childcare
• Has a genuine passion for outdoor learning and child‑led play

Desirable (or willing to obtain within three months of starting)

• Level 3/Advanced DSL training (we’ll fund this if needed)
• Experience chairing or contributing to multi‑agency meetings
• Working knowledge of local safeguarding partnership procedures
• Direct safeguarding lead experience is welcomed, but a willingness to grow into the role with strong support and training is just as important

What We Offer

• Being part of an award‑winning nursery that values excellence and innovation
• Top 10% pay in the area – up to £14.05 per hour
• 4‑day work week for full‑time staff – more time for you
• Extra holiday days for long‑standing team members
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Lifestyle discounts on groceries, travel, entertainment and more
• Employee Assistance Programme – mental health support and coaching
• Staff treats, events and parties – because we value you
• Free lunches, tea and snacks to keep you fueled
• Free uniform and on‑site parking

Muddy Boots is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to ensuring that the terms and conditions of employment for staff and selection processes for potential employees are equitable and non‑discriminatory.

All positions offered by Muddy Boots are subject to the receipt of two satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check, as part of our safeguarding duties.

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