This document emphasises the importance of developing measures to deter, reject or identify people who might abuse children, or who are otherwise unsuited to work with them. It provides guidance to be used in recruitment and selection procedures and other Human Resources management processes.

The processes are covered step-by-step, from planning a recruitment and selection exercise to conducting post-appointment induction. Guidance is also given on continuing awareness and maintaining a safer culture within education settings. The document includes a useful checklist which can be used throughout recruitment and selection.

The guidance supplements ‘Safeguarding children in education’ (DfES 0027 2004), published in September 2004. It must be taken into account when drawing up arrangements for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, as required under the Education Act 2002.

Please note: this guidance was in force from July 2005 until December 2006, and has now been replaced by the updated version (ref: DFES-04217-2006), but it can still be downloaded below.

View the Bichard Inquiry pages on TeacherNet