A Guide To DBS Checks for Apprentice Supervisors
Hiring an apprentice can be an excellent thing for both the supervisor and the new talent that is being trained up in the business.
In fact, a survey revealed that since hiring an apprentice, 76% of businesses report an increase in productivity and 75% say that product or service quality has improved. All apprentices need a supervisor or mentor to train them up in the skills that they need.
As with most recruitment decisions these days, when hiring an apprentice you need to consider whether it is necessary to run a background check such as a DBS Check on the person supervising them. In this guide, we’ll discuss the criteria for different levels of DBS Check and how apprentice supervisors can apply for one.
Are DBS Checks needed for apprentice supervisors?
The typical age of a new apprentice is between the ages of 16 and 18 years old, which means they are considered to be minors in the eyes of the law. Therefore, the person supervising them is working in direct contact with children. For this reason, it would make sense that child safeguarding rules and regulations will apply.
However, as the apprentice is an employee and the supervision is not technically a caring role, it is generally considered that an apprentice supervisor does not need the highest level of criminal background check, i.e. an Enhanced DBS Check.
This is true even though the Department for Education mandates that any person who trains, teaches, or instructs a child is involved in something called a ‘regulated activity’, which will always qualify for an Enhanced DBS Check and barred list check.
In the case of an apprentice supervisor, they are considered to be a manager, rather than a trainer or teacher, so the same rules don’t usually apply.
However, there are exceptions.
When do apprentice supervisors need DBS Checks?
An apprentice supervisor or line manager may be eligible for an Enhanced DBS Check in the following circumstances:
- Working at a location that is considered to be within ‘a limited range of establishments’ and has contact with children, such as a school or a care home
- If the apprentice is younger than 18 years old and is still occupied in full-time education.
There may be more exceptions that make an apprentice supervisor eligible for a DBS Check. The best way to find out is to contact the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and check with them if you are unsure.
Can apprentice supervisors get other DBS Checks?
An Enhanced DBS Check may be too much of a high level check for apprentice supervisors or line managers, but a lower level DBS Check may be applicable.
There are two lower levels:
- Basic DBS Check which highlights any unspent convictions on an individual’s record, as well as any conditional cautions. Any individual can apply for a Basic DBS Check and it can be useful to reassure any potential apprentices or their parents.
- Standard DBS Check which reveals both unspent and spent convictions, as well as cautions, reprimands, and warnings. The application needs to be verified and submitted by a DBS registered body or employer and individuals cannot apply for one themselves.
You can apply for a Basic DBS Check through our online service and get the results within 24 hours.
Summary of DBS Checks for apprentice supervisors
If you employ apprentices in your business, then you should consider whether a DBS Check is appropriate for the apprentice supervisor or mentor.
In general, an apprentice supervisor does not need an Enhanced DBS Check, but there are circumstances where they may need one.
If you’re unsure whether a DBS Check is required for your particular situation, get in touch with one of our expert team members today.
