Volunteers

Dear Volunteer,

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at Goldsworth 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 Barring 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 Goldsworth Primary School complies with the recommended safeguarding procedures and upholds its legal responsibility to safeguarding. If you already hold a DBS certificate which includes working with children, we may be able to accept this in lieu of a new application in the following circumstances:

• DBS Update Service – If you have registered for the DBS Update Service please speak to the school office to request a Status check on your certificate.
• We may also accept an enhanced DBS check that is less than 3 months old from a recognised professional body.

DBS Application – The Application Process

1. Applicants must express their interest by completing a volunteering application, this can be done via the school office.
2. Applicants must provide the school with 3 original forms of identification (not photocopies) as per the ID checking guidelines provided, together with payment for the DBS processing fee. Your identification will be copied, and the originals returned to you immediately.
3. Applicants will receive an email from dbs@goldsworthprimary.co.uk detailing instructions on how to complete the online DBS application.
4. The school will be notified once you have completed your online application. We will verify your identity documents via the online service and submit your application for processing. 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 into school.

Safeguarding Policies and Documentation

In line with school procedures volunteers are required to read/complete the following documents prior to volunteering:

• Volunteers Handbook
• Childcare (Disqualification) Regulations Declaration Form – please print & complete if you will be volunteering in Reception (early years) or school club

Other relevant reading – Other policies and helpful information may be read to assist you in your role as a volunteer:

Staff Behaviour Policy Code of Conduct

Behaviour Policy

Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy

Keeping Children Safe in Education Part 1

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.