LeadersSafeguardingCPDGovernorHubKeyGPT
Training Hub

Employing people with convictions: model policy, guidance and examples

Stay compliant when writing your policy statement for employing 'ex-offenders'. Download our model policy and see examples from other schools.

Updated
on 23 September 2026See updates
Ref: 45693
Statutory/mandatory for:
Maintained schools
Academies
Free schools
Independent schools
Sixth-form colleges
Further education
Pupil referral units
Non-maintained special schools
Contents
  1. Download our model policy
  2. Understand the rules around recruiting people with criminal records
  3. Find more support with safer recruiting
  4. The DBS requires you to have a policy
  5. See examples from schools

Download our model policy

Model policy: recruitment of ex-offenders DOCX, 195.2 KB
Download

Our model policy for recruiting ex-offenders (sometimes called 'recruiting people with previous convictions') has been approved by Forbes Solicitors.

Changes to our model policy for 2026 Section 1: introduction Added that an enhanced DBS check with barred list check also applies to volunteers in regulated activity Referenced the Crime and Policing Act 2026 Set out that applicants will be notified in advance about DBS checks and the DBS Code of Practice Section 2: protections and exemptions Added text to clarify what counts as a 'specified offence' Section 3: responsibilities 3.1 The headteacher. Added text to make sure at least 2 people are involved in shortlisting and the interview 3.3 All shortlisted applicants (previously 'all job applicants'). Added text about signing a declaration of truth Section 4: the process for disclosing and assessing previous convictions 4.1 Self-declaration. Expanded detail on data