Recruitment checks: cheat sheet

Get to grips with the difference between the key recruitment checks, including DBS checks and section 128, why they're important and how to do them. Download our cheat sheet for a handy reference.

Updated
on 10 August 2026
See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 36933
Contents
  1. Download our recruitment checks cheat sheet
  2. DBS
  3. Barred list
  4. Prohibition from teaching 
  5. Childcare disqualification
  6. Section 128

Download our recruitment checks cheat sheet

Use our quick reference guide to help you understand some of the key recruitment checks schools need to do and how they fit together to provide a holistic view of a candidate.

Download a printable version to keep to hand or include in process manuals.

KeyDoc: recruitment checks cheat sheet DOCX, 133.0 KB
Download

Use our checklist to help you stay compliant 

Once you've understood which check is which, use our list of checks for new school staff, governors and trustees to make sure you're carrying out all the required safeguarding checks for every role in your school.

DBS

What is it?

An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a check on someone's criminal record.

It includes:

  • Spent and unspent convictions
  • Cautions
  • Reprimands
  • Final warnings

Enhanced DBS checks don't include a barred list check unless you specify that you