Safety Training Awards (STA) has launched a new regulated Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Officer qualification, providing sport, physical activity and leisure organisations with a specialist training programme for individuals responsible for leading safeguarding within their organisation.

Believed to be the first regulated Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) qualification developed specifically for the sport and leisure sector, the new qualification has been created by STA in collaboration with safeguarding industry experts to equip learners with the knowledge, understanding and practical skills needed to fulfil this vital leadership role.

It is designed for individuals who currently work with children or adults at risk and who have, or are preparing to take on, responsibility for safeguarding within their organisation – whether as a Designated Safeguarding Officer, safeguarding lead or welfare officer.

As part of safeguarding best practice, organisations are encouraged to have a Designated Safeguarding Officer in place to oversee safeguarding arrangements, provide guidance and support, and ensure that any safeguarding concerns are handled appropriately. Recognising the increasing expectations placed on organisations to demonstrate robust safeguarding practices.

STA has developed this qualification to support the sport and leisure industry by providing individuals with the knowledge and skills required to undertake this important role effectively.

Available through either a two-day face-to-face programme or a blended learning pathway, the Ofqual-regulated qualification combines tutor-led learning with practical case studies, enabling learners to develop the confidence to manage safeguarding responsibilities in line with current legislation and recognised best practice.

The launch further strengthens STA’s safeguarding education pathway, complementing its Safeguarding Children and Adults at Risk CPD by providing a natural progression route for individuals taking on strategic safeguarding responsibilities within their organisation.

Throughout the programme, learners will explore the role and responsibilities of a Designated Safeguarding Officer, safeguarding legislation and guidance, recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns, promoting a strong safeguarding culture, recording and reporting concerns, information sharing, and multi-agency working.

Jodie Davis, STA’s Aquatics Qualification Development Officer and Designated Safeguarding Officer, said: “Creating safe, supportive environments where children and adults at risk are protected should be at the heart of every organisation. While safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, organisations also need individuals with the knowledge and confidence to lead that responsibility effectively.

“As STA’s Designated Safeguarding Officer, I understand the importance of having someone who can provide clear leadership, make informed decisions and ensure safeguarding concerns are managed appropriately. That’s why we’ve developed this qualification specifically for the sport and leisure sector, working alongside safeguarding experts to ensure it reflects the real responsibilities and challenges of the role.

“The qualification provides learners with the practical knowledge, understanding and confidence to respond appropriately to concerns, support colleagues and volunteers, and help embed a strong safeguarding culture throughout their organisation. Ultimately, it’s about giving organisations confidence that their Designated Safeguarding Officer has the skills to help create safer environments for everyone.”

The qualification also creates a new opportunity for experienced safeguarding professionals to become STA-approved tutors. Individuals who hold the appropriate safeguarding and teaching qualifications, together with experience acting as a Designated Safeguarding Officer, can apply to become approved tutors and deliver the qualification across the sport and leisure sector.

For more information about the STA Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Officer qualification, or to enquire about becoming an approved tutor:

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