8.01 Recruitment Checks
Obtaining references
As part of our commitment to safer recruitment we obtain references from applicants for roles in our setting. Robust recruitment checks are essential to ensuring that unsuitable persons cannot have contact with children through employment with us.
Obtaining references is an essential element of our recruitment process. We will always obtain a reference prior to employment commencing in line with the requirements of the EYFS as follows:
Our application process requires candidates to supply us with the contact details of a suitable referee from:
Their current employer, training provider or early years education and care setting
A senior person within the organisation who is authorised to provide a reference.
If the applicant is not currently employed, or is not currently working with children we will:
Obtain verification of the applicants most recent relevant employment if they are not currently employed
Obtain a reference from the applicants most recent relevant employer from the last time they worked with children
If the applicant has never worked with children we will obtain a reference from their current employer, training provider or education setting.
Once a reference is received
A reference received electronically will be checked to ensure that it originates from a legitimate source.
We will compare the information on the original application form against relevant information given in the reference, for example, checking that dates align, and roles and responsibilities listed are consistent. Where this is not the case, we will take up any discrepancies with the applicant.
If information is incomplete or we feel it is insufficient for us to make an informed decision about the applicant’s suitability, we will contact the referee for clarification.
Before an offer of employment is made, we will ensure any concerns are resolved satisfactorily.
In line with best practice, we will seek to gain explanations for any gaps in employment.
Further information and guidance
A120 New Employee Handbook (Alliance Publication)
A128 Recruiting Early Years Staff (Alliance Publication)
A129 People Management in the Early Years (Alliance Publication)