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DBS checks: work experience providers

The requirements for carrying out DBS checks on individuals supervising work experience depend on whether pupils are over or under 16. Read our summary to understand these requirements.

Last reviewed on 18 July 2025See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 9606
Contents
  1. Supervising under 16s: checks may be required
  2. Supervising 16s and over: checks are not required
  3. Does the work experience student need a check?

Supervising under 16s: checks may be required

Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks with barred list information may be required on some people who supervise a child under the age of 16 on a work experience placement.

It's up to you to decide what checks are necessary and you should make your decision after considering the circumstances, including the type of supervision and the frequency of the activity. 

You must consider whether the person supervising the child will be:

  • Unsupervised
  • Providing the activity overnight or frequently (more than 3 days in a 30-day period)

If the person is unsupervised and in frequent contact with the child, their work is likely to be regulated activity. 

If this is the case, you could ask the employer providing the work experience to make sure the individual is not a barred person.

This is outlined in paragraphs 333 to 335 of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025.