When it comes to safeguarding children, there’s no room for error. The majority of people working at a school, whether it be a teacher, cleaner, or contractor, require Enhanced DBS checks. Failing to get legally required DBS checks can lead to serious consequences – from failed inspections to reputational damage.
At Employment Tools by Aaron’s Department, we make it quick, simple, and affordable for schools to get the DBS checks they need, while keeping full proof for Ofsted or safeguarding audits. Whether your staff are permanently working in a school, or are there for contract work, we can help you.
Who Needs a DBS Check in a School?
Whether you’re a primary, secondary, or independent school, the following people usually need a DBS check:
- Teachers and teaching assistants – Enhanced DBS with Children’s Barred List.
- School governors – Enhanced DBS, with barred list where required.
- Volunteers – Enhanced DBS with or without barred list depending on role.
- Contractors working on site – Level of check depends on contact with children.
- Admin and support staff – Level depends on access to pupils and records.
If you’re unsure which check is needed for a role, our team can help you decide before applying.
Why Choose Employment Tools For Your DBS Checks?
With over 20 years of experience in providing DBS checks for schools , we are able to offer you:
Why Are DBS Checks For Schools Needed?
DBS Checks are required for schools, as OFSTED (The Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) states that schools must have DBS checks for their staff.
Undertaking DBS checks is necessary for safety in education settings, making sure anyone who is unsuitable to work with, or alongside children is unable to.
For more information on regulated activity, you can read our DBS Regulated Activity – 5 Things You Should Know article.
DBS Check for Schools By Position
Our DBS Check for Schools Costs
When you sign up for DBS checks for Employers with Employment Tools, there are no registration fees, hidden costs, or minimum spends.
All you pay for is what you need, and not a penny more.
All Admin fees below can be reduced even further by taking advantage of our Free Admin Credit System
| Disclosure Type | DBS Application Fee (No VAT) | Admin Fee (+VAT) | Total (+Admin Fee VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic DBS Check | £21.50 | £5.45 | £26.95 |
| Standard DBS Check | £21.50 | £8.75 | £30.25 |
| Standard DBS Check (Volunteer) | £0 | £8.75 | £8.75 |
| Enhanced DBS Check | £49.50 | £10.95 | £60.45 |
| Enhanced DBS Check (Volunteer) | £0 | £10.95 | £10.95 |
| Adult First Check | £6 | £5.45 | £11.45 |
Features of our DBS Service
What is a Barred List Check?
The Barred Lists (both Adults’ or Children’s) contain information on whether an individual is barred or not from working with vulnerable adults or children.
Individuals can be checked against one or both of the lists, depending on the job position offered. This job position must be included in the ROA 1974 (Exception) Order 1975 and in the Police Act 1997 (Criminal Records).
When is a Children’s Barred List Needed?
If the job position is defined as a regulated activity with children under the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, then the applicant can be checked against the Children’s Barred List.
The Children’s Barred List is a replacement for List 99, POCA (Protection of Children Act) and disqualification orders. It is a quick way to find out if the applicant is barred from working with children.
DBS Checks For Schools – FAQ
Do all teachers need an Enhanced DBS check?
Yes. All teachers require an Enhanced DBS check with a Children’s Barred List check before starting work.
Can contractors be DBS checked?
Yes, if they work during school hours and may have contact with pupils.
Do school governors need a DBS check?
Yes. School governors in maintained schools must have an Enhanced DBS check.
How Long Does a DBS Certificate Remain Valid?
DBS Check Certificates have no official expiry date, but rather provide an up-to-date look at the history until the date of print. The check itself checks information from the criminal records which happened before the moment of applying, with nothing that occurs after the print date being on the DBS Certificate, until a new check is performed.
Are DBS Checks Transferable Between Schools?
If the employee has been previously checked with the Disclosure and Barring Service, there is no legal requirement, to request a new DBS check before starting to work in another school.
However, the school that offers the job position has to ask for evidence that there has been a check performed from the previous school or supply agency, and it is their responsibility to assess and decide whether the check is at the correct level for the offered position. Many schools will request a new check to get the latest, most up-to-date information on new members of staff.
How long does a DBS check take for schools?
With our system, most Enhanced DBS checks are completed within a few days, though it can vary depending on police force response times.