Celebrating National Teaching Assistants Day 2025

If you’re starting your teaching journey or returning to the classroom, one of the first things you’ll need is a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. It’s a legal requirement for anyone working in schools, whether you’re a teacher, teaching assistant (TA), or classroom support professional. It’s a vital step in keeping schools and learners safe. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a DBS check?

Let’s start by looking at what a DBS check actually involves. A DBS check looks at your criminal record to make sure you’re suitable to work with children and young people. There are different levels of checks, but for education roles, an Enhanced DBS with Barred List check is needed.

What the Enhanced Check and Barred List mean

The Enhanced DBS Check is mandatory for anyone working closely with children. It includes a check of all cautions, convictions, and relevant police information. Critically, it also includes the Barred List check. The Barred List check confirms that you are not on the list of individuals who are legally prevented from working in regulated activity with children. This is the single most important part of the process for keeping pupils safe, and it's why every candidate must have this level of clearance before starting a placement.

The DBS Update Service and why it matters

Once you understand the level of check required, it’s useful to know how the DBS Update Service can simplify the process. Teaching Personnel accepts candidates who are subscribed to the DBS Update Service . This service keeps your DBS record current and enables us to check your certificate in real time.

If your DBS is registered with the Update Service, a certificate is valid across multiple schools, so you won’t need to apply for a new certificate each time you take on a different role. It’s faster, more flexible, and saves money in the long run.

Using an existing DBS certificate

If you already hold a DBS certificate, we can only accept it if it’s registered on the DBS Update Service. This process is important for supply teachers or candidates who want to apply for roles before securing a placement: a certificate on the Update Service is valid across multiple schools.

Certificates not linked to the Update Service must be processed through Teaching Personnel. Once completed, we’ll help you register it on the Update Service so it can be used for future roles without additional applications.

In short: only certificates on the Update Service are accepted. If yours isn’t, you’ll need to apply through us first, then register it to ensure it covers all placements for the year.

What it costs and who pays

With the type of check and Update Service sorted, let’s look at the cost and payment process. The cost of a DBS check through Teaching Personnel is £49.40, which is paid by the candidate. We’ll guide you through the application process and share guidance on setting up your Update Service subscription once it’s issued.

How long does a DBS take?

There’s no fixed timeline for DBS results. Some are returned within a few days, while others may take several weeks, depending on the local police department processing the checks. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way, and we encourage candidates to start early so delays don’t affect your placement start date.

What shows up on a DBS check?

Wondering what actually appears on your DBS check? Here’s what it can reveal:

Any criminal convictions, including spent ones.
Cautions, warnings, or reprimands.
Information held by local police, even if it did not lead to a conviction.

If you have something to declare

If you have any previous cautions or convictions, speak openly with your consultant during your interview. They’ll discuss it confidentially and guide you on the next steps. You’ll also be asked to provide a short written statement to accompany your application.

We know these conversations can feel daunting, but being transparent helps us find the best possible outcome for you and the schools we work with.

Filtering of old cautions or convictions

Filtering policies vary between schools and trusts, so we’ll advise you when needed. Generally, minor or historical offences may not appear on an Enhanced DBS certificate, depending on the filtering rules in place.

A few quick tips for a smooth DBS process

Start your application early and don’t wait until you’ve secured a role.
Gather all required ID documents (passport, driving license, utility bills) before you start.
Check your application details carefully. Simple errors can cause delays.
Keep your DBS certificate safe, you’ll need the certificate number to join the Update Service.
Register with the Update Service within 30 days of your certificate being issued.
Tell your consultant if your name, address, or any other personal details change.

Final thoughts

Your DBS check is more than a formality. It’s part of what makes education a safe, trusted environment for every learner. Teaching Personnel is here to make the process as simple as possible, supporting you through every step of your teaching journey. Following these tips will help you stay on top of the process and avoid delays.

If you’re ready to begin your application or have questions about the process, contact your local consultant today. We’re here to help you get started with confidence. Start your DBS application today and make sure your certificate is ready for any school.

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Your complete guide to DBS checks

Register with us
for work in schools across England & Wales

Your complete guide to DBS checks

Register with usfor work in schools across England & Wales

Register with us
for work in schools across England & Wales