QuickRead: DBS checks for governors and trustees

Save time by reading our summary of the rules on Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for governors in just one page. Download a copy to share with your colleagues.

Last reviewed on 16 June 2022
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 31100

Governors, trustees and local governors need an enhanced DBS check

This must include a barred list check if an individual is in 'regulated activity' – for a full definition, see Annex E (pages 172  to 174) of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2022.

They also need a section 128 check. Find out more about the required checks in our articles for maintained schools and academies.

Clerks and associate members may need to have an enhanced DBS check, depending on location, committee membership and school type. See the above articles for more detail. If they are in regulated activity then they must have an enhanced DBS check with a barred list check.

You won't apply for a DBS check yourself – your governing board or school administrator will likely apply for it, depending on your school's arrangements.

They must complete a suitability check with the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) They don't need to