Volunteers

Dear Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at St John’s Primary School. We feel that the involvement of parents in our children’s education is vital and we encourage active participation in many ways.

In order for you to work in school as a volunteer:

• you will need to complete an enhanced Disclosure and Baring Service (DBS) check. Please be assured that all information will be treated in the strictest confidence. These checks are an Ofsted requirement and are done for the best interests and safety of the children.
• read and complete a number of documents prior to undertaking your role as a volunteer, but please do not let these documents deter you.
• if you have not been resident in the UK for at least the previous 5 years, you may be asked to provide a certificate of good conduct from each country where you have resided for 12 months or more.

Disclosure and Baring Service (DBS) and Update Service

An enhanced DBS check must be carried out for all volunteers to ensure that St John’s Primary School complies with the recommended safeguarding procedures and upholds its legal responsibility to safeguarding. If you already hold a DBS certificate we may be able to accept this in lieu of a new application in the following circumstances:

• Update Service – If you have registered for the update service (https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service) please request an update to your enhanced DBS which should be sufficient to meet the School’s requirements.
• We may also accept an enhanced DBS check that is less than 3 months old from a recognised professional body.

The Application Process

1. Applicants must express their interest in completing a DBS application, this can be done via the school office.
2. Upon application, applicants will receive a guidance document detailing instructions on how to start the DBS application process.
3. Once the applicant has completed the first stage of the process they must provide the school with 3 original forms of identification (not photocopies) as per the list of valid identity documents listed on page 7 of the guidance together with payment for the fee. Your identification will be copied and the originals returned to you immediately.
4. The school will then verify your identity documents and complete the second stage of the application via the online service. Please note: the application process may take any length of time from a few days to a few months which is beyond the control of the school.
5. Once you have received your DBS certificate, bring it onto school.

Safeguarding Policies and Documentation

In line with School procedures volunteers are required to read and/or complete the following documents prior to volunteering: –

• Staff Behaviour Policy Code of Conduct
• DfE Keeping Children Safe in Education – part 1
• Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy
• Whistle Blowing Policy
• Behaviour and Discipline Policy
• Guidance and Protocol for Volunteers in School
• Childcare (Disqualification) Regulations 2009: Declaration Form – please print & complete if you will be volunteering in Reception or after-school clubs

To comply with Health and Safety regulations, you must sign in and out at the main office each time you volunteer, whether you are remaining in school or helping on a school trip. You must also wear your temporary ID badge whilst on the premises.

If you have any queries or concerns regarding the above, please do not hesitate to contact the school.