In the education sector, finding the perfect match for a role is paramount. However, navigating the diverse regulatory landscape across different education sub-sectors and roles within your organisation can be challenging when determining essential background checks for new starters.
To simplify this process, here’s our guidance on the necessary education background screening checks you should complete.
Essential education background screening checks
Right to work check
First and foremost, employers in the UK must verify that the candidate has the right to work in the country before hiring. Failure to do so could result in significant fines and legal complications for your company. Employers should ensure that identity documents are verified through a reliable process, preventing potential fraud and compliance risks.
Criminal record check
Regulation in the education sector is complex, with different roles requiring varying levels of DBS checks. Some positions mandate an Enhanced DBS check, while others might also require a Child’s Barred List check. At the same time, certain roles may only need a Basic DBS, even if they appear similar to those requiring more rigorous screening.
Adding to the complexity, not all educational institutions are legally obligated to conduct a Basic DBS check. However, our research shows that most organisations opt to do so as part of their internal policies. Similarly, some Further Education colleges wrongly assume they are exempt from Enhanced DBS checks - an oversight that could lead to serious legal ramifications. Employers should ensure they fully understand their specific obligations to maintain compliance.
Reference check
Completing a reference check before hiring is crucial to verify a candidate's qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role. It is also a core part of the Ofsted suitability check.
There are multiple ways to conduct employment verification checks, including:
- Instant employment verification through government integrations
- Traditional professional reference checks
- A combination of the two
A structured reference-checking process helps ensure quicker responses, reducing hiring delays and improving due diligence.
Identity check
Confirming the individual's identity through a comprehensive background check is essential. This step ensures that a candidate’s personal details (name, date of birth, national insurance number) are accurate, reducing the risk of identity fraud.
Given the rise in fraudulent applications, identity checks should be an integral part of every education hiring process.
Additional education background screenings for candidates who have lived abroad
If a candidate has lived abroad within the past five years, they must still undergo all the standard checks. However, additional screening, such as obtaining a local criminal record check from the relevant country, may be necessary.
Employers should be aware of international screening requirements to maintain compliance and ensure a thorough hiring process.
Use the right tools to streamline background screenings for the Education sector
Companies will be able to tap into a far wider talent pool with the right software.
A consistent identity-checking process used by hiring teams ensures less repetition and fewer hoops to jump through (for all involved), building trust faster and attracting more candidates.
At Zinc, we offer a seamless and efficient background screening process tailored to the education sector. As a UK Government-approved identity Service Provider (IDSP), we provide secure, remote identity verification.
With automated follow-ups, instant employment verification and a quick turnaround time, we help streamline hiring while ensuring regulatory standards compliance.
Turnaround times for education background screening
The time it takes to complete education background checks varies depending on the type of check and the country of origin.
- Right-to-work and identity checks can often be completed within minutes. With Zinc, these checks are processed remotely and securely, ensuring minimal delays.
- Reference checks may take a few days, depending on how quickly referees respond. Zinc’s automated follow-ups help speed up this process, with most checks completed in 24 hours.
- DBS criminal record checks in the UK typically take a few days to process. Zinc’s streamlined system ensures fast turnaround times, helping you avoid unnecessary delays.
- International background checks may take several weeks depending on the country’s processing times. Zinc can support these checks, helping you navigate different international requirements efficiently.
Job seekers expect their digital identity to swiftly provide the necessary details - acting as a one-stop shop for background checks. At Zinc we offer more than 12 types of background checks and quick results with turnaround times that mean background checks take a matter of days, not weeks. So you can find the right candidates, in a timely manner.
Want to know more about Zinc's turnaround times? We've published them live for everyone to see.
FAQs
1. Do education background screening requirements differ between public and private institutions?
Yes, requirements can vary. Public schools must follow strict national regulations, like mandatory DBS checks for roles involving children. Private institutions have more flexibility but often implement similar checks to ensure student safety and compliance.
2. Can a candidate start working before their background checks are complete?
It depends on the role and the organisation’s policies, some institutions allow candidates to start under supervision while checks are pending, especially for non-teaching roles. However, for positions involving direct contact with children, most schools and colleges require all checks to be completed before employment begins.
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