What References do I Need to Work in a School?
Professional references are not just a formality; they are essential tools in assessing a candidate's suitability to work with children. Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) emphasises that references should be obtained before the interview process to allow any concerns to be addressed promptly. The guidance specifies that references must:
- Be factual and not opinion-based
- Be provided by a senior person with appropriate authority
- Confirm the candidate's suitability to work with children
By adhering to these standards, schools can better ascertain the integrity and competence of prospective staff members.
Aligning Recruitment Practices with KCSIE
To fully comply with KCSIE, schools should:
- Obtain at least two references: One must be from the candidate's most recent employer, ideally someone who has worked directly with children.
- Verify references: Contact referees to clarify any vague or insufficient information.
- Ensure references are from legitimate sources: Electronic references should originate from verifiable email addresses.
- Compare references with application forms: Address any discrepancies with the candidate before proceeding.
These practices not only align with KCSIE but also fortify the school's commitment to safeguarding.
Implementing stringent reference checks is part of a broader strategy to create a safe educational environment. KCSIE highlights the importance of early intervention and comprehensive safeguarding measures. By ensuring that all staff members are thoroughly vetted, schools can mitigate risks and foster a culture of safety and trust.
Flourish Education References
At Flourish Education we recognise the importance of references and go beyond statutory guidance to ensure the safeguarding and well-being of students in the schools we work with. We require a minimum of 2 professional workplace references from a senior person covering the last 24 months of employment, one of these MUST include an educational childcare setting (and have headteacher consent). We also require a professional character reference that has been known to the candidate for 3+ years.
All references are collected prior to work clearance to ensure that any concerns can be addressed.
Definitions:
Educational Childcare Setting: A regulated environment where children are engaged in activities to support learning and development i.e. nurseries, preschools, schools, childminders, afterschool clubs, wraparound care on a school premises – usually OFSTED or EYFS regulated.
Last 24 months of employment: This means the last 24 months of active employment – where there are gaps in the employment history the timeline will increase further than a block of 24 months.
Minimum of 2: If there have been multiple workplaces in the last 24 months all workplaces will need to be provided as a reference
Professional: From a workplace email address or on headed paper with a signature
Professional Character Reference: a referee known to the candidate with a profession from the accepted list.
Professional references are more than just a recruitment tool; they are a safeguard against potential risks.