1. Purpose
This policy sets out how Bray Tutoring Ltd recruits staff and contractors in a way that safeguards children, young people and vulnerable adults. We are committed to ensuring that only suitable individuals are engaged to deliver tuition and support services.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- Employees, tutors, and contractors engaged directly by Bray Tutoring Ltd.
- Associates and agency staff placed through Bray Tutoring Ltd.
- Admin staff involved in recruitment and vetting.
3. Legal and Statutory Framework
This policy is informed by:
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE, 2025)
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018, updated 2023)
- The Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
- Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and Ministry of Justice guidance on disclosure
4. Recruitment Principles
- Safeguarding first: All recruitment decisions prioritise the safety of children.
- Consistency: All applicants are subject to the same checks.
- Transparency: Applicants are informed of vetting requirements at the outset.
- Escalation: Where requirements are not met, the Designated Safeguarding Lead or Safer Recruitment Lead makes final decisions.
5. Recruitment Procedures
5.1 Advertising and Applications
- Roles include a safeguarding statement making clear commitment to child protection.
- All applicants must complete a full application form, including employment history and declarations.
5.2 Shortlisting
- Gaps in employment must be explored at interview.
- References are requested prior to interview where possible.
5.3 Interviews
- Include safeguarding questions to assess suitability.
- Face to face where location allows this, online where distance is too far
- Candidates asked about self-suitability declarations (in line with Ministry of Justice guidance).
6. Pre-Engagement Checks
6.1 Identity
- Verified using acceptable photographic identification document.
- Originals must be viewed where possible.
- Where documents are provided digitally:
- Only official PDFs or full clear scans/photos are accepted.
- Screenshots/cropped images are rejected.
- Verification may include live video call presentation of the original document or certified copies.
6.2 Right to Work
- UK tutors: Right to Work checks conducted in line with Home Office guidance.
6.3 Proof of Address
- Verified using acceptable proof of address document.
- Must be dated within the last 3 months unless otherwise stated.
- Fintech/payment provider statements (Wise, SumUp, Revolut, PayPal, Monzo, Starling etc.) are not accepted as standalone proof.
6.4 Criminal Record Checks
- Enhanced DBS with Barred List check for roles involving regulated activity.
- Overseas police checks where appropriate.
- Annual self-suitability declarations required.
6.5 References
- At least two references, including the most recent employer/engagement within an education setting.
- References verified by phone where possible.
- Where references are received via a reputable third-party referencing provider, this is accepted as an appropriate form of verification in place of direct telephone confirmation.
- All references are reviewed for suitability and consistency. Any discrepancies, limited information, or safeguarding concerns will be followed up as needed before an individual is approved to work.
- Reference outcomes are recorded as part of the safer recruitment record and, where applicable, on the Single Central Record.
7. Induction, Training and Oversight
- All tutors will be expected to have an up-to-date safeguarding and prevent certificate.
- Tutors will be asked to read and agree to Bray Tutoring Ltd’s Safeguarding Policy as part of their induction process.
- All admin staff involved in recruitment receive safer recruitment training.
- Bray Tutoring Ltd will keep a Single Central Record (SCR) recording the checks that have been made.
- The Designated Safeguarding Lead or Safer Recruitment Lead at Bray Tutoring Ltd. oversees compliance and approves any exceptions.
8. Record-Keeping
- Recruitment checks recorded on the Single Central Record.
- Copies of documents stored securely in line with GDPR.
- Only necessary data retained.
9. Escalation Procedure
Where an applicant cannot provide acceptable documents:
- Admin staff request alternatives from the official lists.
- If still unavailable, the matter is escalated to the Designated Safeguarding Lead or Safer Recruitment Lead.
Recruitment is paused until the check is resolved. - Any exception must be documented with Lead approval.
- Any concerns or allegations will be handled following Bray Tutoring Ltd’s Safeguarding Policy.
10. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually, or sooner if statutory guidance changes.
Last reviewed: 6th February 2026
