A DBS check is a mandatory step for all tutors joining MyTutor.
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is a background screening process that helps ensure tutors working with children and young people are suitable to do so.
When does the DBS process start?
The DBS module will unlock automatically after the results of your interview ID check have been processed.
Once the module becomes available, you’ll be able to start your DBS process as part of your onboarding checklist.
What happens during the DBS process?
You’ll first see an introduction explaining:
why DBS checks are important
how to apply
what to do if you already have a DBS check
You’ll then be asked:
Have you lived overseas in the last five years?
Do you already have a DBS check?
Your answers will determine the next steps.
What if I already have a DBS check?
We’ll ask a few questions to confirm whether your existing DBS check is valid.
Your DBS check must:
have been issued within the last 12 weeks, unless you are registered with the DBS Update Service
be an Enhanced DBS check
show “None recorded” under the Children’s Barred List
If your DBS check meets these requirements, you’ll be asked to:
self-declare any convictions
enter your DBS certificate number
upload a photo of your DBS certificate
Once you’ve uploaded your certificate:
If your DBS is approved, your DBS module will be marked as complete.
If your DBS is not approved, you’ll be asked to upload your information again.
What happens if I don’t already have a DBS check?
If you do not have a valid DBS check, you’ll be guided through the application process.
You’ll need to provide:
any previous legal names
your mother’s maiden name
the town and country where you were born
a self-declaration of convictions
agreement to the DBS Terms and Conditions
The DBS application process typically takes 8–12 working days, depending on local police processing times and how accessible your records are.
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll see a confirmation message.
If anything goes wrong, you’ll receive a clear error message with guidance on what to do next.
What happens after my DBS check is approved?
Once your DBS check has been approved:
your DBS module will be marked as complete
you can continue with your tutor onboarding checklist
Please read the Disclosure and Barring Services terms and conditions (“DBS Terms”)
1. Capitalised terms in these DBS Terms have the same meaning as in the Tutor Terms and Conditions (“Tutor T&Cs”), unless otherwise specified herein. These DBS Terms should be read in conjunction with the Tutor T&Cs.
2. As set out in the Tutor T&Cs, obtaining an enhanced DBS check is indispensable to provide Tutoring Services. In view of the rules and regulations around working with children and vulnerable people, you will not be permitted to provide Tutoring Services without a valid DBS check.
3. MyTutor will arrange a DBS check for you via our third-party DBS provider (“DBS Supplier”), and pay the fees associated with obtaining the DBS check on your behalf (“DBS Charges”). Therefore, a non-refundable DBS check cost of £49.50 is required to proceed with this application. By submitting your payment, you acknowledge and agree to this fee.
4. Accuracy of Information: You agree that all information provided in this application is true, accurate, and complete. You understand that any false or misleading information may result in the rejection of your application.
5. Data Protection: We will handle your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy. By agreeing to these terms, you consent to the collection, use, and storage of your information for the purpose of processing your application, and for the subsequent purposes as set out in the Privacy Policy.
6. DBS Check Consent: By submitting this application, you give your explicit consent for a DBS check to be carried out. You understand that the results of this check may impact the outcome of your application.
7. Limitation of Liability: We are not liable for any direct or indirect damages that may arise from the use of or inability to use this application, including but not limited to technical malfunctions or delays.
8. Right to Refuse: We reserve the right to refuse or terminate your application at any stage, for any reason, without providing a detailed explanation.
9. In addition to maintaining a valid DBS check, you must comply at all times with MyTutor’s Safeguarding Policy and applicable safeguarding legislation and guidance.
10. We reserve the right to change these DBS Terms at any time to accurately reflect the latest requirements of the DBS checks (including DBS Charges). It is your responsibility to review these DBS Terms regularly. Any changes to these DBS Terms take effect from the date that such updates to these DBS Terms are published. If you disagree with any changes to these DBS Terms, you should let MyTutor know and not continue to deliver Tutoring Services or receive any MTW Services.
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