Safeguarding - Back to School: Are you KCSIE ready?

As schools return for a new and busy term, few roles feel the pressure quite like that of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). With the final version of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025 published on September 1st, the compliance responsibilities facing DSLs are extensive and, at times, overwhelming. Add in the induction of new staff and students, alongside the need to review and update policies and procedures, and it’s clear this is a demanding but crucial time of year—one where getting things right really matters. 

In this Sofa Session, we’ll review some of the best practices we've seen in schools following the KCSIE 2024 updates, unpack the key updates from KCSIE 2025 and explore how schools can effectively embed them into their safeguarding policies and practices. We’ll also look at practical strategies for building a strong safeguarding culture from day one, highlighting where DSLs should focus their efforts directly as the new academic year begins.

During the session we will be discussing the following:

• • • Examples of best practice we've observed in schools since the KCSIE 2024 updates.
    • A clear breakdown of the 2025 changes and how these should be applied in day-to-day practice.
    • Key priorities for DSLs this September - where to focus time, energy and resources. 

Let us introduce you to this week's professional speakers

Kate Massey

Kate Massey is Head of Safeguarding with over 16 years’ experience in education, including 10 years in pastoral care and 7 years as a Designated Safeguarding Lead. She has led safeguarding across a large secondary school within a MAT, developing robust processes and providing strategic oversight. A qualified SENDCo with expertise in professional curiosity, multi-agency working, and safeguarding governance, she is recognised for her supportive yet solutions-focused approach. Kate has successfully guided schools through Ofsted inspections and is passionate about empowering them to strengthen child protection practices. Outside of work, she enjoys time with family and friends over good food.