The DSL Handbook (PDF)

👀 What It Is:

This isn’t another policy PDF or generic safeguarding slideshow.
It’s a grounded, real-world guide for DSLs — written from hospital wards, school corridors, and the quiet moments where the job catches up with you.

Whether you've just picked up the folder…
Been thrown into the role with no real induction…
Or you're years in and still carrying it mostly alone…

This one’s for you.

🧠 What’s Inside:

• 8 chapters of honest insight — including burnout, boundaries, thresholds, gut instinct, supervision, and handover practice
• A section at the end of each chapter called “If It Works, Steal It” — packed with practical tips you won’t find on a PowerPoint
• Real-life experience from someone who’s been DSL, SLT, and behaviour lead all at once
• A refusal to sugar-coat what the job really demands — and why it matters so much

📎 Who It’s For:

• New DSLs trying to find their feet
• Experienced DSLs who’ve never really had proper support
• Pastoral leads, AP staff, and anyone who ends up being “the one who holds it all”