Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries: Child Protection & Ofsted

Training Express Ltd

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries: Child Protection 1:40:28

  • 1: Mp4_Script_A_Intro_ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 05:56
  • 2: 1. Introduction to the Course.docx (5) 02:00
  • 3: Mp4_Script_A_M1_ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 08:18
  • 4: Module 1 – Understanding the DSL Role (Introduction) 05:00
  • 5: Mp4_Script_A_M2 _ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 07:58
  • 6: Module 2 – Recognising Abuse & Early Years Risk Factors 04:00
  • 7: Mp4_Script_A_M3 _ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 07:25
  • 8: Module 3 – Responding to Concerns and Disclosures 04:00
  • 9: Mp4_Script_A_M4 _ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 05:25
  • 10: _ Module 4 – Referral & Escalation Pathways 04:00
  • 11: Mp4_Script_A_M5 _ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 07:50
  • 12: Module 5 – Record-Keeping & Policy in Action 04:00
  • 13: Mp4_Script_A_M6 _ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 09:40
  • 14: Module 6 – Leading Safeguarding Culture in the Nursery 04:00
  • 15: Mp4_Script_A_M7 _ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries 10:57
  • 16: Module 7 – Contemporary Safeguarding Challenges & Next Steps 04:00
  • 17: Mp4_Script_A_Conclusion _ Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurser 03:59
  • 18: 3. Conclusion.docx (3) 01:00
  • 19: Get your Free CPD Certificate 01:00

The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries: Child Protection & Ofsted course provides essential safeguarding knowledge for those working in early years settings. Protecting children is a legal and moral responsibility, and this course helps learners understand how to lead safeguarding procedures effectively.

Nurseries play a vital role in identifying early signs of abuse, neglect, and vulnerability. This course is suitable for nursery managers, safeguarding leads, room leaders, and practitioners who need to meet EYFS, child protection, and Ofsted requirements. It helps address the risks of missed concerns, poor documentation, and delayed referrals.

This online training covers the DSL role, statutory guidance, recognising abuse indicators in young children, and responding to disclosures. Learners will explore referral routes, escalation procedures, safer recruitment, confidentiality, and record-keeping standards. The course also focuses on creating a child-centred safeguarding culture and preparing evidence for Ofsted inspections. On completion, learners will be able to lead safeguarding confidently and support the wellbeing of children and staff.

Course Curriculum :

Module 1: Understanding the DSL Role (Introduction)

• 1.1 The purpose of a Designated Safeguarding Lead in nurseries
• Legal requirement under EYFS Annex C.
  
• Central figure for safeguarding leadership.
• 1.2 Key statutory frameworks every DSL must know
• EYFS, Working Together, and KCSIE relevance.
  
• How guidance applies specifically to nurseries.
  
• 1.3 Responsibilities of the DSL day-to-day
• Receiving and acting on safeguarding concerns.
  
• Liaising with multi-agency partners and parents.
  
• 1.4 Being inspection-ready
• Ofsted expectations during inspection.
  
• Evidence DSLs must be available at all times.

Module 2: Recognising Abuse & Early Years Risk Factors

• 2.1 Core categories of abuse
• Physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and neglect.
  
• How they may present differently in early years.
  
• 2.2 Subtle indicators in children aged 0–5
• Behavioural changes such as withdrawal or aggression.
  
• Developmental delays or unexplained injuries.
• 2.3 Contextual risks for nurseries
• Domestic abuse and its impact on children.
• Parental substance misuse or mental health issues.
• 2.4 Professional curiosity
• Asking questions when “something feels wrong.”
• Avoiding assumptions and keeping an open mind.

Module 3: Responding to Concerns and Disclosures

• 3.1 How children may disclose in early years settings
• Verbal cues such as repetition or sudden statements.
• Non-verbal cues through play or behaviour.
• 3.2 Immediate response by the DSL
• Remain calm and avoid shock or disbelief.
• Reassure the child without making promises.
• 3.3 Recording concerns accurately
• Use factual, objective language without assumptions.
• Include time, date, and signature for accountability.
  
• 3.4 Confidentiality and information sharing
• Share only with those who need to know.
• Follow GDPR and safeguarding protocols.

Module 4: Referral & Escalation Pathways

• 4.1 Knowing local referral routes
• Contact details for local MASH or social care.
• When and how to make an urgent referral.
• 4.2 Completing referral forms correctly
• Provide clear, concise, evidence-based information.
• Avoid jargon and ensure accuracy.
• 4.3 Working with the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)
• When concerns involve staff or volunteers.
• How to escalate without delay.
• 4.4 Escalation when concerns are not taken seriously
• Using escalation policies confidently.
• Whistleblowing procedures as a last resort.
  

Module 5: Record-Keeping & Policy in Action

• 5.1 Core safeguarding documents in nurseries
• Safeguarding policy and referral flowcharts.
• Daily incident and concern logs.
• 5.2 Maintaining a DSL safeguarding file
• Keep chronological records of all concerns.
• Store securely and access on a need-to-know basis.
• 5.3 Evidencing safeguarding for Ofsted
• Training logs for all staff.
• Case examples showing proper referral.
• 5.4 Using templates and toolkits effectively
• Adapt LA-provided forms and checklists.
• Review regularly to stay current with updates.

Module 6: Leading Safeguarding Culture in the Nursery

• 6.1 Supporting and training your team
• Provide induction and annual refreshers.
• Use scenarios to build staff confidence.
• 6.2 Supervision and wellbeing
• Offer support for staff after difficult cases.
• Encourage reflective practice and resilience.
  
• 6.3 Safer recruitment basics
• Ensure DBS checks and reference verification.
  
• Ask safeguarding questions in interviews.
  
• 6.4 Building an open, child-centred culture
• Encourage staff to speak up without fear.
  
• Prioritise children’s voices and experiences.

Module 7: Contemporary Safeguarding Challenges & Next Steps

• 7.1 Online safety for under-5s
• Risks from digital devices in the home.
• Guidance for parents on safe technology use.
• 7.2 Prevent duty in early years
• Spotting early vulnerability to extremism.
• Embedding British values in everyday practice.
• 7.3 Learning from case reviews
• Baby P and Victoria Climbié lessons.
• Local nursery safeguarding failures and improvements.
• 7.4 Next steps for the learner
• Renew DSL training every two years.
• Join local safeguarding networks and DSL forums.

Our course is fully CPD-accredited, providing you with up-to-date skills and knowledge and helping you to become more competent and effective in your chosen field.

Once you’ve completed your course, you will immediately be sent a FREE CPD-accredited digital certificate, titled: Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) Training for Nurseries: Child Protection & Ofsted. You will also get a FREE hardcopy certificate (Shipping cost £5.99).

This certificate does not have a fixed expiration date. However, in accordance with industry best practice guidelines, it is recommended that the certification be renewed every 3 years.

• Nursery managers responsible for safeguarding and child protection
• Deputy managers supporting safeguarding leadership duties
• Early years practitioners working with children aged 0–5
• Room leaders overseeing welfare and safeguarding concerns
• Staff preparing for Ofsted safeguarding inspections

• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
• Nursery Manager
• Deputy Nursery Manager
• Early Years Safeguarding Officer
• Child Protection Coordinator
• Nursery Compliance Officer
• Early Years Setting Manager

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