The UK's largest teaching union, the National Education Union (NEU), has repeated its call to introduce mandatory criminal record checks for all private home tutors working with children. They highlight the fact that all adults working with children in a school or voluntary setting need to have an enhanced DBS check, previously known as a Criminal Records Bureau or CBR check. However, adults who set themselves up as self-employed private tutors and who see children either in their own homes or the child’s home do not legally require any DBS checks at all. According to the teaching unions this is a loophole which urgently needs to be closed.
Banned Teachers
The call for DBS checks for all private tutors comes in response to concerns that teachers who have been banned from classrooms might seek employment as private tutors. Recent research has also indicated a significant increase in the number of children receiving private tuition in England and Wales over the past decade, either instead of full-time home schooling, or in addition to any lessons they may be having in school.
Teachers and DBS Checks
While classroom teachers have to have enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) before going into the classroom to work with children, private tutors are not subject to the rules. A recent shocking case involving the abuse of two girls during home school lessons has heightened worries about the lack of oversight in the tutoring industry.
Teaching unions have called for the closing of the loophole allowing tutors to work without any checks whatsoever and have also commented that parents are not aware of the differing requirements for professional teachers working in schools, and tutors who work from home. A further loophole was created during the pandemic when we all switched to online teaching, as many tutoring sessions take place remotely, with teacher and student in separate places.
Advice for Employing Tutors
Good tutors are in demand, and many parents may feel it is rude to question a tutor on their background or ask to see proof of criminal records checks. As discussed, at present it is not possible for a self-employed tutor to get access to anything other than a basic DBS check. A basic DBS certificate will confirm someone’s current and unspent convictions only, but is a good starting point for anyone who is considering employing a tutor.
Many teachers who are currently employed in local schools’ work as tutors in the evening, and knowing that a tutor also works in a school gives additional security in knowing that they need an enhanced disclosure for their day job. Googling the name of a tutor may reveal additional information about their background. A reputable teacher or tutor will be aware of the issues around DBS checks for tutors and will not be offended if you ask. Depending on the age of the child concerned, tutors may also be happy for you to remain in the room while they are teaching your child.
