DSL refresher training
DSL training needs to be updated at least every 2 years. This course will help you make sure that your DSL and deputy DSLs are fully up to date in their knowledge of their safeguarding responsibilities, in line with KCSIE 2025.
Who it's for
DSLs and deputy DSLs, as refresher training
This course is in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025.
If you completed this course before 27 August 2025, you'll need to select 'retake course' (see above) to take the course again with the new changes in line with KCSIE 2025.
Note: changes to KCSIE 2025 are only technical. If you're part way through the course on 27 August 2025, you can carry on with the previous version. Select 'retake course' afterwards to take the course again with the new changes.
In 3 to 4 hours, this course recaps all the core aspects of the designated safeguarding lead (DSL) role, as defined in statutory guidance. You'll update your knowledge of the latest requirements and best practice in safeguarding children, and draw on the experience of other DSLs and safeguarding experts to develop your practice.
By the end of this course, you will:
- Understand best practice across all your key DSL duties, as set out in KCSIE
- Be clear on the law and latest statutory guidance on safeguarding and child protection
- Know how to recognise different types of abuse and respond to a concern or incident
- Be confident in 'making the call' on whether to refer and how to make that decision
- Know how and when to share data appropriately, and how to use it proactively to safeguard children
- Understand the different challenges when safeguarding children with SEND and have strategies to help you support their specific needs
- Feel equipped to work proactively with other agencies, and be ready to contribute confidently to case conferences
At the end, you'll complete 2 in-depth, real-world scenarios, to put your learning into practice.
Note: this course covers everything expected of DSL refresher training in KCSIE. For initial DSL/deputy DSL training, we recommend going to a local provider (usually your local authority or local safeguarding partners) for training that's more specific to your local context.