DSL Skills Audit

Looking to identify the skills and development points of your school’s designated safeguarding lead? Or perhaps you’re a DSL or deputy DSL who wants to explore role-specific strengths and weaknesses as part of your ongoing development or when looking for a new role. No matter the situation, this handy pack contains exactly what you need to uncover strengths and plan for professional development & growth.

A quick-and-easy pack to audit the skills of a DSL or anyone in a role where they hold responsibility for safeguarding and child protection. This pack contains concise guidance to support you in effectively utilising the skills audit, whether you’re line managing a safeguarding and child protection lead or whether you’re a DSL yourself who’s wanting to evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement.

Included is a 18-page template covering the different areas of skills that a DSLmay need. These are split into handy sections, such as legislation, policies and record-keeping, staff development and critical thinking, decision making and working in partnership, so they can be used flexibly. Questions include:

Do I understand the protocols for managing situations involving missing children, including reporting to relevant authorities and communication with parents or carers?
Do I understand the assessment process for providing early help and statutory intervention?
Given the increasing importance of online safety, how do I support staff to recognise and respond to online risks, including cyberbullying, grooming and inappropriate content?
How do I ensure pupils are provided with the opportunity to give feedback about their school experience and how safe they feel?

Further resources, recruitment and skills audits can be found on our website honeyguide-sls.co.uk