Chelmark Education
Compliance Requirements

All education professionals must complete comprehensive safeguarding training covering child protection, abuse recognition, reporting procedures, and duty of care obligations in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance.

All staff receive training on the Prevent Duty under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015, including recognizing radicalization and reporting procedures.

Strict adherence to GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. All professionals sign confidentiality agreements and receive training on handling sensitive student information securely.

All professionals adhere to the Teachers' Standards and code of conduct, including appropriate professional boundaries, conduct outside school, and use of social media.

Full compliance with Equality Act 2010. All professionals receive training on treating students with dignity and respect, regardless of protected characteristics.

How long does the compliance process take?

The compliance process typically takes 2-4 weeks from initial application to final approval. This includes Enhanced DBS checks (5-10 working days), QTS verification (2-3 days), reference verification (3-5 days), and safeguarding training confirmation (1-2 days). We'll keep you updated throughout.

Do I need QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)?

Yes, QTS is required for most teaching positions in schools. We verify your QTS status through the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) database. If you're a newly qualified teacher or from overseas, we can guide you through the QTS application process. Some specialist roles may have alternative qualifications.

What if I have a gap in my employment history?

Employment gaps are common and not automatically disqualifying. We'll ask you to provide an explanation for any gaps exceeding 3 months. Reasons such as illness, further study, travel, or caring responsibilities are understood. We assess each situation individually and transparently.

Can I teach while my DBS check is pending?

No, Enhanced DBS clearance must be completed and verified before you can begin teaching in schools. This is a regulatory requirement to protect children. However, we can often arrange supply work in other sectors while your DBS is being processed.

How often do I need to renew my DBS check?

DBS Enhanced Checks are valid for 3 years. We'll remind you when renewal is due. Some schools may require more frequent checks (annually) depending on their specific requirements. We'll inform you of any additional requirements when placing you with a school.

What if I have a previous conviction?

Having a conviction doesn't automatically exclude you from teaching. We assess each case individually based on the nature, severity, and time elapsed since the offense. Some convictions may be filtered under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. We encourage you to disclose any convictions upfront so we can properly advise you.

Do I need to complete Prevent Duty training?

Yes, Prevent Duty training is mandatory for all school staff. If you haven't completed it, we can provide guidance on accredited online courses. Most courses take 1-2 hours and cost between £10-30. Schools will often provide this training during induction if you haven't completed it beforehand.