Prior to a candidate going into a school, we obtain a minimum of two written references to cover the last 24 months of employment (if applicable). Our reference criteria will require at least one academic reference, one of which should be from the candidate’s last teaching post or student placement and the other from a previous post (s). In the first instance we do require the reference to be signed off by the Headteacher, however where this is not possible then we would accept the signature of the Deputy Head or member of the Senior Leadership Team or a Head of Department.
All of our references must include comments on the candidate’s skills and abilities, details of any disciplinary procedures/ allegations or concerns raised, particularly relating to the safeguarding of children.
As part of our safer recruitment practice and reference policy, we cannot always accept a ‘To whom it may concern’ or ‘agreed’ reference. Such references may only be accepted if we receive verification of the reference. We require all questions related to child protection, details of any disciplinary procedures/allegations or concerns raised to be answered. We cannot continue with the registration if these questions are not answered.
Where an unsatisfactory reference is received, this is escalated to the Branch Manager to take the necessary action.
If a candidate re-registers with VES and has been working elsewhere, then further professional references are obtained to ensure their suitability to work for us again