As apprenticeships and professional training programmes increasingly involve contact with young people, vulnerable adults, or sensitive environments, UK employers must ensure the right background checks are in place. DBS Checks for Apprenticeships and Training Programmes help organisations verify an applicant’s criminal record history and protect those taking part in education and work-based learning.
Whether you’re an employer, training provider, or apprenticeship coordinator, understanding the correct level of DBS check is essential for legal compliance and safe recruitment.
Why DBS Checks Matter in Apprenticeships
Many apprentices work in schools, healthcare settings, care homes, community services, or roles involving financial responsibility. In these environments, safeguarding is a legal requirement.
DBS checks help training providers:
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Confirm a candidate is suitable for work involving trust
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Protect vulnerable groups
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Ensure compliance with sector-specific regulations
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Reduce safeguarding risks for employers and students
Some apprentices may be placed in roles where a full background check is mandatory from day one.
Which Level of DBS Check Is Required?
The level of check depends on the apprentice’s role and the nature of their placement.
1. Basic DBS Check
Required for apprenticeships where the role does not involve regulated activity or direct supervision of vulnerable people.
This includes administrative, retail, warehouse, hospitality, or marketing apprenticeships.
2. Standard DBS Check
Needed when the apprenticeship involves positions of responsibility or access to sensitive information.
Common in legal apprenticeships, finance programmes, security roles, and certain NHS support positions.
3. Enhanced DBS Check
Essential for apprentices working directly with children or vulnerable adults, such as:
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Teaching assistant apprentices
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Early years apprentices
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NHS clinical support apprentices
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Social care and youth work trainees
Enhanced checks include a search of both local police records and barred lists (if applicable).
Who Pays for a DBS Check?
This varies depending on the employer, training provider, or apprenticeship framework.
Most apprenticeships fully fund the check, but some employers ask the apprentice to cover the cost themselves.
Applications can be completed quickly through accredited providers like Clear Check.
When Should the Check Be Carried Out?
Best practice is to run the DBS check before the apprenticeship begins.
However, for some training programmes, a conditional offer may be made pending DBS clearance.
If the role changes during the apprenticeship, a new DBS check may be required.
How Long Does a DBS Check Last for Apprentices?
DBS checks do not expire, but employers must assess whether they remain valid.
High-risk industries usually require periodic re-checks to maintain safeguarding standards.
FAQs
Do all apprentices need a DBS check?
No. Only apprentices working with vulnerable groups or in sensitive roles require a Standard or Enhanced DBS check.
Can apprentices start before their DBS certificate arrives?
This depends on the employer’s safeguarding policy. For high-risk roles, they must wait for clearance.
Can an apprentice refuse a DBS check?
Yes, but refusal may make them ineligible for certain training placements where checks are legally required.
Are DBS checks transferable between apprenticeship programmes?
Not always. Employers may request a new check if the role is different or higher risk.
