Recruitment checks: cheat sheet

Do you know your DBS check from your section 128? Barred list check from prohibition from teaching? Learn the difference between the key recruitment checks, why they're important and how to do them. Download our cheat sheet for a handy reference.

Last reviewed on 2 May 2023
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 36933
Contents
  1. DBS
  2. Barred list
  3. Prohibition from teaching 
  4. Childcare disqualification
  5. Section 128

Here's a quick reference guide to help you understand how some of the key recruitment checks schools need to do 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 DOC, 190.5 KB

Stay compliant with the latest statutory guidance 

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.

Find a flowchart to help you decide which checks are necessary on page 66 of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2023.

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

Read next

Also in "Recruitment processes and requirements"