Charlotte Hayes
DDSL and Inclusion Practitioner
Epsom
Summary
Experienced and dedicated safeguarding professional with over a decade in the education sector, including several years as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) and Inclusion Practitioner. Proven ability to manage complex and high-risk safeguarding cases involving children and young people, with a strong understanding of statutory requirements and multi-agency collaboration. Skilled in coordinating student support services, leading staff training, and developing safeguarding strategies that promote student wellbeing and safety. Holds a First-Class Honours degree in Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Practice and is passionate about delivering inclusive, student-centered services that foster resilience, engagement, and success. Experienced in supervising teams, maintaining safeguarding compliance, and contributing to whole-school safeguarding culture and development plans.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead & Inclusion Practitioner
Danetree Primary School
Epsom
01.2016 - 05.2025
- Continuous delivery of safeguarding CPD sessions to 135 staff members.
- Monitor staff CPD ensuring all staff are fully compliant.
- Facilitate sharing of relevant information between local agencies and school.
- Point of contact for community and specialist support services, referring children and their families where necessary.
- Attend professionals meetings on behalf of the school relating to CP and vulnerable children.
- Organise reports/data information for professional meetings.
- Identify support needs of pupils at the point of transfer back into class, between schools or key stages with the school.
- Supported vulnerable students with tailored interventions in line with EHCPs and safeguarding plans.
- Led the Wellbeing Team, promoting mental health and wellbeing across staff and students.
- Managed and strategically planned cover for a four-form entry primary school whilst managing a team of Cover Teachers.
Key Worker (Creche)
David Lloyd Leisure
Epsom
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Provided safe, engaging care for children aged 1–4 years.
- Developed age-appropriate activities promoting early development and wellbeing.
Administrative Assistant
Southern Fruit Brokers
01.2013 - 01.2015
- Managed customer communication and order processing.
- Maintained spreadsheets and online filing systems.
Personal Assistant
FIT8 Gyms and Property Services
01.2005 - 01.2007
- Managed client correspondence and business scheduling.
- Coordinated networking events and handled administrative tasks.
Assistant Manager
The Star Public House (Greene King Brewery)
01.2003 - 01.2005
- Supervised staff, managed rotas, and handled cashing up.
- Organised community events and ensured excellent customer service.
Education
First Class Honours Degree - Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Practice
Kingston University
Kingston upon Thames 09.2021 - 06.2024
A Levels - Sociology, Geography, Media Studies
Sandown High School
Sandown, Isle of Wight 09.2002 - 08.2003
AS Level - Psychology, Geography, Sociology, Media Studies
Sandown High School
Sandown, Isle of Wight 09.2001 - 08.2002
GCSEs - GCSEs
Sandown High School
Sandown, Isle of Wight 09.1999 - 08.2001
Skills
In-depth knowledge of safeguarding legislation, including KCSIE, Working Together to Safeguard Children, and relevant FE safeguarding frameworks
Proven experience managing high-risk cases and working with vulnerable young people and adults
Experience working with multi-agency partners (eg social services, CAMHS, police, LADO)
Experience in managing a team
Excellent verbal and written communication for liaising with students, staff, and external agencies
Strong report writing, record-keeping, and documentation skills (eg safeguarding records, incident reports)
Experience developing and improving safeguarding policies, processes, and protocols
High level of emotional intelligence, with strong boundaries and resilience when dealing with distressing or sensitive issues
Timeline
First Class Honours Degree - Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Practice
Kingston University
09.2021 - 06.2024
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead & Inclusion Practitioner
Danetree Primary School
01.2016 - 05.2025
Key Worker (Creche)
David Lloyd Leisure
01.2015 - 01.2016
Administrative Assistant
Southern Fruit Brokers
01.2013 - 01.2015
Personal Assistant
FIT8 Gyms and Property Services
01.2005 - 01.2007
Assistant Manager
The Star Public House (Greene King Brewery)
01.2003 - 01.2005
A Levels - Sociology, Geography, Media Studies
Sandown High School
09.2002 - 08.2003
AS Level - Psychology, Geography, Sociology, Media Studies
Sandown High School
09.2001 - 08.2002
GCSEs - GCSEs
Sandown High School
09.1999 - 08.2001