DBS and health checks for teacher training

You will work with children and vulnerable adults during your PGCE. Because of this, you must complete the required safety and health checks beforehan

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You will work with children and vulnerable adults during your PGCE. Because of this, you must complete the required safety and health checks beforehan

DBS and health checks for teacher training

DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check

You must have an enhanced DBS certificate. 

  • Our Admissions team will contact you with instructions and a DBS application form
  • You must complete your DBS check before the course starts
  • You cannot take part in school placements until your DBS clearance is confirmed

School Direct (salaried route)

If you are on a School Direct salaried programme: 

  • You must complete your DBS check through your employing school
  • Your school will also arrange your health clearance

Occupational health check 

You must also complete a health check before starting your course. Further details will be provided during the application process.

Fitness to teach assessment

You must be assessed as fit to teach before you can receive an unconditional offer. 

Teaching is a demanding profession, and all applicants must meet the requirements set by the Department for Education (DfE).

How the assessment works

Maitland Medical carries out your fitness to teach assessment. 

  • Complete an online questionnaire
  • Pay a £63 fee when you submit the form

If you need a paper questionnaire or support, contact Maitland Medical: 

Full instructions are provided in the questionnaire.

What happens next 

Maitland Medical will assess your submission and confirm your status to UEL. 

We will check your clearance before your placements to make sure you are approved to attend.

Support and disclosure

Trainee teachers with disabilities and additional needs are successful on our programmes, especially when they share their needs early. 

If you have a disability or support need: 

  • Tell us as soon as possible
  • We will assess the support you need
  • We will help you access the support you are entitled to

Get more information about DBS and health checks

  • Read the UCET guidelines on DBS and health screening 

  • Read the guide to DBS and health screening procedures for teacher trainees

For more information, contact the Applicant Checks Officer at applicantchecks@uel.ac.uk.

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