About the training
LimeCulture developed the Sexual Misconduct Liaison Officer (SMLO) model to provide schools and colleges with specially trained staff who can respond safely, consistently, and appropriately to incidents of sexual misconduct.
The SMLO role supports both:
- Students/pupils who disclose or report sexual misconduct
- Students/pupils who may be the subject of a report
The model is designed to complement the role of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and strengthens schools’ and colleges’ ability to meet statutory safeguarding obligations under:
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
- Working Together to Safeguard Children
This three-day NCFE-accredited Development Programme is delivered to individual schools and colleges. Delegates benefit from interactive training that embeds trauma-informed practice, safeguarding compliance, and practical skills for frontline response.
Schools and colleges can also download the SMLO Role Description and Person Specification.
Course Suitability
This training course is suitable for schools and colleges where the SMLO model is already embedded.
If your school or college is interested in adopting the SMLO model, we can provide a tailored quotation to meet your specific needs. Please get in touch by email or telephone to discuss your requirements and explore how the programme can be adapted to your setting.
This programme is suitable for:
- Staff in schools and colleges nominated to take on the SMLO role
- Safeguarding and pastoral staff seeking enhanced skills in responding to sexual misconduct
- Senior leaders looking to embed a structured and accredited approach within their safeguarding framework
- Schools and Colleges where the SMLO model is already embedded
Learning Objectives
Day 1
- Understand the context of sexual violence/misconduct in education, including key guidance and legislation
- Recognise the influences affecting a child or young person’s decision to disclose/report
- Apply trauma-informed approaches to supporting victim/survivors
- Develop key communication skills within the context of sexual violence/harassment
Day 2
- Understand the role of the SMLO within schools’ safeguarding duties and duty of care
- Define and maintain professional boundaries of the SMLO role
- Apply principles of risk management in the context of sexual misconduct
- Understand confidentiality and information-sharing requirements
Day 3
- Manage first disclosures with confidence and care
- Apply best practice principles for accurate record-keeping
- Understand internal and external referral pathways
- Recognise the importance of self-care and supervision for SMLOs
Outcomes & Benefits
For delegates:
- Gain accredited skills to respond appropriately to sexual misconduct in education
- Develop confidence in safeguarding practice and trauma-informed support
- Learn how to manage disclosures, boundaries, and record-keeping
For organisations:
- Strengthened safeguarding capacity aligned to statutory requirements
- Clearer internal pathways for responding to sexual misconduct
- Increased confidence among staff, pupils, and parents in the school’s response framework
