Job Description:

Head of Early Years & Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Salary: £45,000–£55,000
Location: Chelsea, Imperial Wharf, London
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Working pattern: Monday to Friday

The Opportunity

First Bridge School (FBS) is a DfE-registered specialist SEND school in Chelsea, supporting children aged 2–11 with autism and complex developmental needs.

We are seeking an experienced Head of Early Years & Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to lead our Early Years provision and oversee safeguarding across the entire school.

This role would suit an established Early Years leader with strong safeguarding expertise. Previous DSL experience is welcome but not essential if you can demonstrate substantial safeguarding knowledge and the capability to take on whole-school responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

Early Years Leadership

• Lead and develop the Early Years provision for children aged 2–5.
• Ensure learning reflects the EYFS framework, child development and individual EHCP outcomes.
• Promote effective practice in autism support, communication, sensory needs and emotional regulation.
• Monitor children's progress through observation, assessment and accurate record-keeping.
• Lead, support and develop staff to maintain high standards.
• Collaborate with families and multidisciplinary professionals, including Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists.

School Safeguarding and Child Protection

• Act as DSL, overseeing safeguarding for all pupils aged 2–11.
• Manage safeguarding concerns, disclosures, referrals and appropriate escalation.
• Liaise with children's social care, local authorities and relevant safeguarding agencies.
• Maintain accurate, confidential safeguarding records and appropriate information sharing.
• Advise staff on safeguarding procedures, child protection and professional responsibilities.
• Coordinate safeguarding training, induction and staff awareness.
• Monitor safeguarding compliance and contribute to audits, policy reviews and inspection readiness.
• Ensure safeguarding arrangements reflect the needs of pupils with SEND, autism and complex communication difficulties.

Essential Requirements

• EYTS, QTS, EYPS or an equivalent higher-level qualification relevant to Early Years education.
• Substantial Early Years experience and a strong understanding of EYFS practice.
• Proven leadership experience, including staff development and improving provision.
• Strong safeguarding and child protection knowledge, including referrals, record-keeping and multi-agency working.
• The professional judgement and confidence to undertake whole-school DSL responsibility.
• Experience managing safeguarding concerns or contributing significantly to safeguarding processes.
• Previous DSL experience is desirable but not essential for candidates with substantial safeguarding expertise and readiness to take on the role.
• Excellent communication, organisation and decision-making skills.

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead or Deputy DSL. Relevant DSL training and experience working with external safeguarding agencies.
• Experience in a specialist SEND or autism setting.

What We Offer

• 34 days of holidays (inclusive of bank holidays)
• Competitive pay scales, performance-linked pay and bonuses, and monthly recognition awards.
• Opportunities for high-quality ongoing professional development and career progression.
• Up to 100% financial support towards relevant professional qualifications.
• Complimentary breakfasts and drinks, including Nespresso coffee.
• Funded celebratory events, including summer and Christmas parties.

Safeguarding and Application Process

First Bridge School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check and appropriate pre-employment checks, including references and qualification verification. Online searches may be conducted for shortlisted candidates.

This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. A criminal record will not automatically prevent appointment.

To apply
Submit your CV and a short supporting statement outlining your Early Years leadership experience, safeguarding expertise and suitability for the role. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an initial screening conversation and further assessment and interview.