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Teachers - 12-06-2025 - - 0 comments
Getting Classroom Ready: Why You Need the Right DBS and How to Join the Update Service

If you're applying to work with an education supply agency, one of the most important parts of your registration is ensuring you hold the correct type of DBS check—and that it's either current or registered with the Update Service. This isn’t just a formality—it's a legal requirement that ensures the safety and wellbeing of children and young people in education settings.

So, what exactly does that mean for you?


What Type of DBS Do I Need?

To work in schools or other educational settings, you need an Enhanced DBS with a Barred List check (Children’s workforce). This level of check shows:

  • Spent and unspent convictions

  • Cautions, warnings, and reprimands

  • Whether you're barred from working with children

Supply staff, student teachers, and agency workers must have this specific check to be placed legally. A Basic or Standard DBS is not sufficient for working directly with children in an education setting.


Why the DBS Needs to Be Recent or on the Update Service

A DBS is only valid on the day it’s issued. If you’ve had one done for another employer or agency, that doesn’t mean it can be transferred automatically—unless it’s registered on the DBS Update Service.

Being on the Update Service means we can check your certificate online for any changes, saving you time and money.


How to Join the DBS Update Service

If you’re applying for a new DBS (or have one dated within the last 30 days), you can register it online:

  1. Go to: https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service

  2. You’ll need:

    • Your DBS certificate number (if you’ve already received it)

    • Your name, date of birth, and certificate details

  3. The service costs £13 per year and can be paid by card or direct debit

?? You must register within 30 calendar days of your DBS certificate being issued. After that, you’ll need to apply for a new check if you want to join.


Why It Matters to Us

At Education Supply Pool, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We have a duty to schools, pupils, and staff to make sure everyone we send into a classroom has been properly vetted. Having the right DBS check—and being on the Update Service—speeds up your registration process and means we can get you into placements faster.


Need Help?

If you're unsure about your DBS status or need help applying, just get in touch with our team. We can guide you through the process and help you get classroom-ready as quickly as possible.


Contact us:
info@educationsupplypool.com
www.educationsupplypool.com

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