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DBS and other required checks for trustees, members and local governors

Be clear on what checks need to be carried out on members, trustees – including chairs – and local governors when they join your academy trust.

Last reviewed on 21 November 2025See updates
School types: Academy•School phases: All•Ref: 4654
Contents
  1. Members and trustees
  2. Local governors
  3. Associate members
  4. Governance professionals
  5. The trust and chair are responsible for the checks
  6. The chair of trustees must complete a suitability check with the DfE
  7. Failure to provide a DBS certificate may result in disqualification
  8. Identity verification checks for Companies House

Members and trustees

The trust must make sure the following are carried out on members and trustees:

  • An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
    • Including a barred list check if they will be in 'regulated activity' (explained below)
  • A section 128 check
  • Checks to confirm their identity, including as a part of the DBS check
  • Checks to confirm their right to work in the UK 
  • Any other checks deemed appropriate where the individual has lived or worked outside the UK

This is outlined in paragraphs 323 to 330 of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025 and in section 4.6 of the academy trusts governance guide.

See the final section of this article for information about identity checks for Companies House.

Local governors

The trust must make sure that local governors have these checks:

These are the only checks set out in