The Importance of DBS Checks in Education Recruitment

When it comes to education recruitment, safeguarding children and young people is paramount.

One of the most critical steps in ensuring this safety is conducting Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. At Zest Education, we take the safeguarding of students seriously, which is why we insist on comprehensive DBS checks for all our candidates.

Here's why they matter and how we make the process as straightforward and transparent as possible.

Why Are DBS Checks Essential?

DBS checks were introduced by the UK Government in 2012, replacing CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checks.? The check provides vital information about an individual's criminal record, including any convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings.

Schools rely on these checks to meet their legal and ethical responsibilities to safeguard pupils, and the checks ensure that only suitable and trustworthy individuals are placed in roles where there is a duty of care for children.

The Cost of DBS Checks

While the importance of DBS checks is undeniable, and no one is able to work in an education setting without an enhanced DBS check in place, they do come at a financial cost.

As of 2 December 2024, the fee for an enhanced DBS check is ￡49.50, which is an increase of more than ￡10 on the previous price - something that has caused concern for some, but was essential to ensure that DBS can maintain its standards of quality

At Zest Education, our candidates are responsible for paying the cost of their DBS check directly to the service provider.

This ensures that there are no hidden charges or inflated fees because, unlike some other agencies, we do not add any additional costs or administration fees to this process.

Transparency and Support

We understand that the cost of a DBS check can feel like an extra burden, particularly for newly qualified teachers, those returning to teaching after a break, or those simply trying to gain classroom experience.

That’s why we aim to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible.

Our expert team of consultants is able to guide candidates through the application, ensuring that it’s completed correctly and efficiently.

Moreover, once a DBS check has been completed, candidates have the option to join the DBS Update Service for an annual fee of ￡16 per year. This service allows a DBS check to be used for multiple roles without needing to apply for a new one each time.

It's a cost-effective solution that we actively encourage our candidates to consider.

Safeguarding Without Compromise

At Zest Education, we believe that safeguarding is non-negotiable.

By ensuring that all candidates undergo thorough DBS checks, we uphold our commitment to protecting the children and young people in the schools that we partner with. We also believe in doing this fairly and transparently, so candidates can trust that they’re not being charged unfairly or unnecessarily.

In choosing Zest Education, schools and teachers alike can be confident in a recruitment process that prioritises safety, fairness, and professionalism at every step.

Together, we can ensure that our classrooms remain safe, nurturing environments where students can thrive.

Zest Education is an award winning recruitment agency specialising in education recruitment, supplying teaching and support staff to educational settings across Staffordshire and the West Midlands.

Since 2014 Zest Education has been using their vast experience to build genuine relationships, making perfect matches for candidates and schools and ensuring the best results for everyone.

For further information on how Zest Education Ltd. can support your school, please visit www.zesteducation.co.uk?

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