School Safeguarding Governor

Safeguarding Governor vacancy – Blackheath High School, GDST

Are you passionate about the safety and well-being of children and young people? We are currently seeking a dedicated and conscientious individual to join our governing board as the Safeguarding Governor.

Blackheath High School is a highly aspirational, innovative day school for girls aged 3-18. We are currently seeking a Safeguarding Governor to join our team and are particularly keen to hear from anyone with a background in the police force, medical field, social services etc., with a strong interest in promoting the safety and welfare of children and supporting girls’ education. 

Being a Safeguarding Governor is a challenging but hugely rewarding role. It will give you the chance to make a real difference to young people, give something back to your local community and use and develop your skills in a board-level environment. As a Safeguarding Governor you will be able to:

• Use your own experience of education and life beyond school to inform conversations
• Develop and utilise your skills in a board-level environment
• Make a valuable contribution to education and your community
• Support and challenge the school so that it improves for pupils and staff
• Bring your unique experiences, perspectives and insights in to decision-making in the interests of the school community

About the Role

The Safeguarding Governor plays a crucial role in ensuring that safeguarding and child protection procedures are effective across our school. You will work closely with school leadership to:

• Monitor safeguarding policies and practices
• Support and challenge leaders to ensure robust safeguarding measures are in place
• Ensure statutory requirements are met and regularly reviewed
• Act as a link between the governing board and the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

This is a voluntary role that offers the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of our pupils by helping to create a safe and nurturing school environment.

Governors support in setting the aims and objectives for the school and assist in achieving those aims and objectives. They monitor and evaluate the progress the school is making and act as a source of challenge and support to the headteacher.

If you are interested, please express your interest to Natalie Argile, via her PA, Mrs Cotton (k.cotton@bla.gdst.net) by the closing date of 26 September 2025.

Skills

Anyone aged over 18 can be a governor and you do not need to be a parent. There is no requirement for you to have an understanding of the education system, just the necessary skills, character and time to contribute. There is training available to help you learn about education.

You do not need to be a safeguarding expert, but an interest in child welfare, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn are essential. Training and ongoing support will be provided.

It is also important that you have time to commit to the role. School governors typically attend 3 meetings per year, as well as making school visits and participating in background reading and training. Meetings tend to take place later in the afternoon.

School Governors will be required to be DBS checked.