Staff Safeguarding Training Pack for DSLs in Early Years Settings 2025-26

The pack offers DSLs in early years settings an easy-to-use PowerPoint template that can be customised to fit their context and schedule. It includes an optional script, aligns with national statutory guidance (such as EYFS and ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’), and incorporates local Kent procedures. The template suggests activities to enhance staff knowledge and should be adapted by DSLs to match their setting’s policies.

Key content covered within the presentation and in line with annex C of the EYFS includes:

• national legislation, policies and guidance in relation to safeguarding
• definition of safeguarding
• roles and responsibilities of practitioners and other professionals
• main categories of abuse, harm and neglect and risks outside the setting, including potential indicators, signs and factors to be aware of
• safe organising culture, including working in ways to safeguarding children, allegations and whistleblowing
• how to respond, record and effectively refer concerns or allegations
• local support and processes, including the Kent Support Levels Guidance
• internet/online safety.

The presentation will need to be adapted by DSLs to ensure it reflects the setting’s specific safeguarding policy and procedures.

The LADO Education Safeguarding Advisory Service has also created additional guidance to help DSLs deliver effective staff training which offers tips for creating a safe training environment and provides activities for use in extended sessions or ongoing staff updates.

This pack will enable DSLs to be confident that their staff have the relevant safeguarding and child protection skills and knowledge required and that they understand the expectations and procedures in place within their setting.

These resources will assist DSLs deliver up-to-date staff training and will help ensure that their setting is a safe place for children and staff.