Safeguarding Governor - Volunteer

Maple Haven, Birchington

• Ref:KCC886-6189-2S
• Posted:12/03/2026
• Pay:Volunteer
• Start Date:Immediate
• App Close Date:30/03/2026 at 14:00
• Interviews:30 March 2026

Advert

Safeguarding Governor – Maple Haven School

About the Role

Maple Haven School is seeking a committed and child‑centred Safeguarding Governor to join our Governing Body. This is a vital role that helps ensure our students’ safety, wellbeing, and protection remain at the heart of everything we do.

As Safeguarding Governor, you will work closely with the Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to provide strategic oversight, support, and challenge around all safeguarding matters within the school.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor the school’s safeguarding practices and ensure statutory requirements are met.
• Meet regularly with the DSL to review safeguarding procedures, training, policies, and case management (non‑identifiable).
• Ensure the school maintains a strong and proactive safeguarding culture.
• Oversee the Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy and support annual review.
• Ensure staff receive appropriate and up‑to‑date safeguarding training.
• Report safeguarding governance activity back to the Governing Body.
• Ensure safer recruitment practices are followed, including reviewing the SCR (Single Central Record).

Person Specification

We are looking for someone who:

• Is passionate about keeping children safe and advocating for their wellbeing.
• Can maintain confidentiality and good judgement.
• Is able to analyse information, ask constructive questions, and offer challenge where necessary.
• Is committed, reliable, and able to attend meetings (usually evenings).
• Has time to undertake governor training (fully funded).
• Experience in safeguarding, education, social care, health, or related fields is helpful—but not essential, as full training is provided.

What We Offer

• Full induction and safeguarding training
• Support from the Chair of Governors and wider board
• An opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children
• A warm, inclusive school community

Information about the school

Maple Haven is a small, nurturing SEN school dedicated to supporting children and young people with a range of learning disabilities and speech, language, and communication needs. Our setting is built on the belief that every pupil deserves a learning environment where they feel understood, valued, and empowered to achieve their personal best.

At Maple Haven, we take a highly individualised approach to education. Our skilled multidisciplinary team, including SEND teachers, speech and language assistants, pastoral staff, and support assistants, works closely with each pupil to create a personalised programme that celebrates their strengths and supports their areas for development. Learning is delivered in small classes with high levels of adult support, enabling pupils to develop confidence, independence, and essential life skills at their own pace. Communication is at the heart of everything we do. We use a range of evidence-based approaches, such as visual supports, and structured language programmes, to ensure every pupil can access learning and express themselves in meaningful ways. Strong relationships, consistency, and a calm, predictable environment help pupils feel safe, understood, and ready to thrive.

Beyond academics, Maple Haven offers rich opportunities for social, emotional, and personal growth. Pupils engage in creative arts, physical development, community learning, and therapeutic activities that promote wellbeing and resilience. Families are valued as key partners, and we work collaboratively to ensure continuity between school and home.

Maple Haven is more than a school, it is a warm, inclusive community where every pupil is supported to learn, communicate, and flourish.

Job Contact Information

• Name:Hayley Byrne
• Address:Maple Haven, Quex Park, Birchington, Kent, CT7 0BH
• Telephone: 01843845033
• Email: hayleybyrne@thellewellyn.school