Technical Notice: STA Launches New Designated Safeguarding Officer Qualification
Posted on 17th August 2026
STA is pleased to announce the launch of the new STA Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Officer qualification.
As part of Safety Training Awards’ (STA) ongoing commitment to creating high quality professional qualifications which meet the needs of the industry, employers, and learners, STA is extremely proud to launch this new qualification.
The new STA Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Officer is a regulated qualification and aims to equip learners with the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills required to allow them to effectively manage safeguarding responsibilities, respond appropriately to concerns, and promote a safe and supportive environment in line with current legislation and best practice.
The qualification is for learners who currently work with children or adults at risk in a sport, physical activity or leisure environment and who have, or are preparing to take on, the role of Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), Safeguarding Lead or Welfare Officer.
The qualification consists of 1 mandatory unit:
- Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a Designated Safeguarding Officer.
The new resources include:
- Designated Safeguarding Officer Resource Manual
- Designated Safeguarding Officer Blended Learning
- Suggested Timetable
- PowerPoint Presentation
- Case Study Templates
- Assessment Strategy
- Case Study Sign Off Sheet
- Example Case Study Template
- Example Case Study Marking Guidance
- Qualification Specification.
The resource manual has been created into a high-quality book-bound printed manual featuring a vibrant new design and easy-to-follow chapter layout. The resource manual is available now within the STA Swim Shop in e-manual or hard copy format.
To deliver the new STA Designated Safeguarding Officer qualification, tutors must hold all the requirements and complete the STA Designated Safeguarding Officer application form. STA have created a FREE online STA Designated Safeguarding Officer Upskill programme to support tutors with delivery of the qualification. The upskill holds a CPD value of ½ point and includes information on the course content, resources, and assessment requirements. It is recommended IQAs who wish to IQA the qualification complete the upskill. It would also benefit ATC co-ordinators.
The new resources and assessment materials must be used when delivering the new STA Designated Safeguarding Officer qualification.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.