Stand-alone nursery
Keep the records required under the EYFS
Record qualifications, identity checks, completed vetting processes and the criminal-record check reference number, date and person who obtained it.
Checks to complete before a new nursery employee starts
A practical checklist for managers of stand-alone nurseries and maintained nursery schools.
Six steps before you approve the start date
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Confirm identity and right to work
Check approved identity documents, make sure the details match the application and confirm the person's right to work in the UK.
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Complete the appropriate DBS check
Obtain an enhanced DBS check. Include children's barred-list information where the role involves regulated activity, and review any information disclosed before confirming suitability.
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Check childcare disqualification
Confirm that the person is not disqualified from providing or managing relevant childcare. This is a separate requirement from the DBS process.
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Verify required qualifications
Check any professional qualifications needed for the role. For teaching roles in maintained nursery schools, complete the relevant teacher-status and prohibition checks.
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Consider time spent outside the UK
Complete the usual UK checks and consider additional checks for countries where the person has lived or worked. If records are unavailable, use alternative evidence and document your decision.
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Resolve concerns before they start
Investigate missing, unclear or conflicting information. Confirm any supervision arrangements and record the final recruitment decision.
Record what was checked, when and by whom
Maintained nursery school
Keep EYFS records and update the Single Central Record
Keep the required EYFS records and add the relevant checks and completion dates to the Single Central Record, including identity, DBS, barred-list information where required, right to work, overseas checks, qualifications and relevant teaching checks.
Is the new starter joining another way?
Agency or supply worker
Obtain written confirmation that the agency completed the required checks. Confirm the worker's identity when they arrive. Maintained nursery schools must also record the agency confirmation and the date it was received.
Contractor
Make sure the appropriate DBS check has been completed and check the contractor's identity on arrival. Never leave an unchecked contractor unsupervised with children.
Trainee teacher
In a maintained nursery school, treat salaried trainees as staff. For a fee-funded trainee, obtain written confirmation that the training provider completed the required checks.
Ready to approve the start date?
- Every check required for the role is complete.
- Missing or conflicting information has been resolved.
- Any supervision arrangements are understood.
- The results and completion dates have been recorded.
Build confidence into every appointment
Explore the complete safer recruitment process, from planning and shortlisting to vetting and safer working practices after appointment.
About this guide
This page summarises relevant requirements from Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 and the EYFS statutory framework. Always follow current statutory guidance and your setting's safeguarding procedures.