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PG Cert Leading Safeguarding in Education

Foundation

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PG Cert Leading Safeguarding in Education

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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.

What does this course cover?
What you’ll study and how you’ll learn. You will study two focused modules: Contemporary Safeguarding Issues and The Designated Safeguarding Lead: Systems and Practice. These cover key areas including child protection legislation, multi-agency working, trauma-informed practice and the strategic responsibilities of DSLs. You will also examine safeguarding in diverse contexts, including SEND, online safety and mental health. Learning goes beyond lectures: you will take part in interactive workshops, online seminars, school-based enquiry and professional networking events delivered in partnership with Safe4Schools. Personalised mentoring and academic support are built into the course, helping you to develop confident, evidence-informed leadership.
How will I be assessed?
How Will I Be Assessed?

Assessment on the PG Cert Leading Safeguarding in Education reflects the realities of strategic safeguarding leadership and the responsibilities of Designated Safeguarding Leads. You will complete a range of tasks, including written assignments, reflective enquiry and critical analysis of safeguarding systems within your own setting. These are designed to help you apply theory to practice, evaluate current approaches and develop confident, evidence-informed leadership. You will receive regular feedback from academic tutors, with opportunities to refine your writing through formative submissions and Level 7 study skills workshops. Each element supports your growth as a reflective and resilient safeguarding professional.

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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.

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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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Contemporary issues in safeguarding and vulnerability
30 Credits (Compulsory)

This module seeks to develop students understanding of the context in which safeguarding takes place and links this to debates around the appropriateness and effectiveness of policy and practice. In doing this, students will explore concepts of vulnerability and risk and how they affect working practices as well as critically evaluating the current policy context.

Live, Learn & Belong at Birmingham Newman

At Birmingham Newman University, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, green campus that creates the ideal setting for focused study and personal reflection, yet remains just eight miles from the vibrant city centre. As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham is also one of the youngest and most diverse in Europe, offering a dynamic blend of culture, innovation and opportunity. From world-renowned museums and music venues to a thriving food scene alongside a growing business and tech sector, it’s a place where creativity and ambition naturally thrive.

Experience Birmingham: A City Full of Possibilities

Whether you're discovering the Midlands for the first time or already know the area well, Birmingham provides a lively and inclusive environment for students. As one of the most energetic and multicultural cities in the UK, it’s a place where you can grow academically while developing personally. Its rich cultural heritage, creative energy and broad range of opportunities make it an inspiring backdrop for your university journey.

A City That Loves Great Food

Birmingham is a brilliant place to explore diverse culinary experiences. You might wander through the famous Balti Triangle, sample global street food at Digbeth Dining Club or enjoy a relaxed meal by the canals in Brindleyplace. The city is also home to independent cafés, vegan-friendly eateries and countless hidden gems. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between lectures or planning an evening out, there’s always something new to discover.

Arts, Culture and Entertainment

The city pulses with creativity. You could catch live music at the O2 Academy, experience a world-class performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome or browse exhibitions at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Creative spaces like the Custard Factory showcase local talent while hosting events that celebrate innovation. With festivals, sporting fixtures and cultural celebrations taking place year-round, there’s never a shortage of things to enjoy.

Simple & Convenient Travel

Getting around Birmingham is straightforward thanks to its well-connected public transport system. Buses, trams and trains make it easy to reach campus, explore the city or travel further afield. Whether you're commuting daily or heading off for a weekend adventure, transport is both accessible and affordable.

Life Beyond the Lecture Hall

Your time at Birmingham Newman University extends far beyond academic study. You’ll have the chance to join student societies, contribute to community projects or try something entirely new. The university’s supportive atmosphere encourages you to build confidence, develop practical skills and feel genuinely at home throughout your studies.

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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