Early Years Designated Safeguarding Lead Refresher Training

What you'll take away

By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:

• Meet their requirement for updated early years DSL training every two years.

• Refresh their knowledge of national legislation and guidance regarding safeguarding children in early years settings.

• Revisit the role of the EYDSL in working with other practitioners, professionals and organisations to safeguard children, including liaison with statutory children's services agencies, and the local safeguarding children partnership.

• Review expectations and processes for referring and escalating child protection concerns and allegations against staff in line with Kent safeguarding procedures.

• Revisit the importance of developing and maintaining a safer organisational culture, including staff awareness and safeguarding policies.

• Share experience and learning with colleagues from different settings to consider effective responses to current and contemporary safeguarding concerns.

Delivery and important information

The course is delivered by a LADO Education Safeguarding Advisor (qualified and experienced Social Worker) and Safeguarding Support Officer (education safeguarding experienced professional) from the LADO Education Safeguarding Advisory Service (LESAS). Training is discussion-based and uses case studies to encourage reflection, debate and professional challenge in relation to practice, ethics and policy.

This course is intended for EYDSLs and Deputy EYDSLs who have previously completed EYDSL training and require updated training in line with the Statutory framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

Delegates should ensure they are familiar with section 3 of the EYFS and the KSCMP Support Level Guidance prior to attending training. 

Existing EYDSLs working in settings outside of Kent may access this course but will need to undertake independent research to ensure they understand their own local safeguarding guidance and procedures to ensure compliance.

Attendance requirements

Full attendance (09:30-16:30) is required to receive a certificate of attendance. A light lunch is provided.

Certificates of attendance will be withheld where attendance or participation requirements are not met.

What delegates say about LESAS training:

In 2025-26, 98% of EYDSLR delegates reported being extremely or very satisfied with our training quality and delivery, as well as achievement of course learning outcomes.

“I found today’s refresher training informative, engaging and helped me feel confident in my safeguarding practices.”

“It was good the trainers were current Social Workers - they were very knowledgeable and delivered the training in a professional, friendly manner.”

“Course was delivered to a high standard, and it was good to network with other managers.”

“It has strengthened my confidence in responding to safeguarding concerns and will help me improve our procedures both now and in the long term.”