PG Cert Leading Safeguarding in Education
Foundation
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Discover how strategic leadership and inclusive safeguarding practice combine to protect and empower learners. The PG Cert Leading Safeguarding in Education at Birmingham Newman University offers a specialist, research-informed route for current and aspiring Designated Safeguarding Leads. If you are committed to creating safe, supportive environments where children and young people can thrive, this course provides the legal grounding, practical insight and systems-thinking you need. You will explore contemporary safeguarding challenges across educational settings while developing the confidence to lead whole-school approaches and influence policy and practice. From your first day, you will join a university community that values collaboration, reflection and ethical leadership.
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Why Study This Course?
The PG Cert Leading Safeguarding in Education at Birmingham Newman University is designed for professionals who are ready to take strategic responsibility for safeguarding in their setting. Whether you are stepping into the Designated Safeguarding Lead role or building on existing experience, this values-led programme equips you with the legal knowledge, practical insight and systems-thinking needed to lead safeguarding with clarity and care. With a strong focus on inclusive practice, reflective leadership and real-world application, the course lays the foundation for effective and ethical safeguarding across schools and colleges.
Explore systems, accountability and safeguarding impact
You will study two specialist modules: Contemporary Safeguarding Issues and The Designated Safeguarding Lead: Systems and Practice. These explore key themes such as child protection legislation, multi-agency working, trauma-informed approaches and safeguarding in diverse contexts, including SEND and online safety. Delivered in partnership with Safe4Schools, the course blends online learning with in-person workshops and networking events. You will take part in interactive seminars, professional enquiry and reflective tasks that build your confidence in leading safeguarding systems, influencing policy and supporting vulnerable learners.
Supportive and personalised learning
At Birmingham Newman University, you will be part of a collaborative academic community that places your professional development at the centre. The programme is delivered by experienced safeguarding leaders and educators who provide personalised mentoring, academic guidance and opportunities for peer learning. Whether you are working in a school, college or wider educational setting, you will be supported to apply your learning directly to your role. Graduates go on to lead safeguarding with confidence, shape inclusive cultures and make a lasting difference in the lives of children and young people.
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Entry requirements
We welcome students from all backgrounds and accept a wide range of qualifications. If yours aren’t listed, don’t worry – our Admissions Team can help you explore your options. See full entry requirements.
A relevant honours degree, 2:2 or above.
If English is not your first language, you must have an IELTS score of 6.5, with no element below 6.0. (Other English language qualifications are also accepted. Please contact admissions for further information).
Consideration will be given to applicants with lower grade in qualifications (e.g. a 3rd class degree or non-honours degree) who have a relevant range of post study professional experience. Professional experience will be considered by the programme leader in conjunction with the quality office on an individual basis.
Please contact Admissions if you have any questions.
Course fees
The tuition fee for academic year 2025/26 is: £2,950
Fees for the 2026/27 academic year are subject to change and will be published here on 9 February 2026.
Additional costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
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Where this course can take you. You will graduate with a strong understanding of safeguarding systems and strategic leadership, ready to enhance your impact as a DSL or progress into senior roles in education, pastoral care or policy. Birmingham Newman graduates are recognised for their ethical leadership, critical thinking and commitment to child welfare. Whether you choose to deepen your safeguarding expertise, influence organisational culture or pursue further study, you will be equipped to lead change and protect the most vulnerable. You will also join a supportive alumni network that champions safe, inclusive education across the sector.
Accreditations and Exemptions
This course leads to a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) at Level 7, awarded by Birmingham Newman University. While it does not offer Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or exemptions from other professional bodies, it is a nationally recognised qualification that supports progression into senior safeguarding roles, policy development and wider educational leadership. The PG Cert also provides a direct route into the MA Education (Safeguarding), allowing you to build on your expertise and continue your professional development. The course forms part of Birmingham Newman University’s wider commitment to developing inclusive, values-led leaders who make a meaningful impact across the education sector.
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