Staff Recruitment Policy

1. Purpose

At Cheeky Minds, we are committed to ensuring that any assistants or individuals working with children are suitable and meet all safeguarding requirements. This policy outlines our approach to recruiting any assistants or staff in line with the EYFS 2025 framework and government guidance.

2. Safer Recruitment

When recruiting an assistant, we follow a safer recruitment process:

• We ensure they complete an application or provide a CV with employment history.

• We collect two references to confirm their suitability.

• We verify identity using official documentation.

• We check they have the right to work in the UK.

• We request an enhanced DBS check (including barred list) for any assistant or adult working directly with children.

3. Household Members

Any person aged 16 or over who lives or regularly stays in the childminding home must also have an enhanced DBS check to ensure children's safety.

4. Health and Fitness

We ensure that all assistants are physically and mentally fit to care for children. A health declaration may be requested before they begin working.

5. Induction and Training

All new assistants complete an induction to understand daily routines and safeguarding procedures. They must:

• Complete safeguarding training before starting work.

•  Be familiar with our policies (safeguarding, behaviour, health & safety, etc).

•  Understand their roles and responsibilities.

6. Ongoing Support

Assistants receive regular informal feedback and supervision. We offer opportunities for further training and development as needed.

7. Equal Opportunities

We are an equal opportunity setting and welcome assistants regardless of age, race, religion, gender, or background.

8. Record Keeping

We keep records of DBS checks, references, training certificates, and identity documents for all assistants.

9. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or if there are changes to EYFS or government guidance.