VETTING and WORK EXPERIENCE

If you are one of the many teachers charged with the responsibility of placing pupils on work experience, then you will know the problems faced when asked 'Has this pupil been vetted?'

The vetting process is to over go a major revamp on the 12th October 2009. From this date, all people who work with children and vulnerable adults will be required to be vetted under the new VBS (Northern Ireland Vetting and Barring Scheme).
Everyone over the age of 16 will be required to be vetted for a one off fee of £58. They will not have to go through this process again in their life time. They will be automatically placed on a database, which is updated by previous and current employers. Sounds to good to be through - but this process is to be rolled out right across NI, all employing authorities will be required to follow this procedure. The fee of £58 is currently been looked at by the DE, as to who should pay the fee, if the person is still at school and wishes to go on work placement.

Current practice varies from board to board, however in the SELB we advise that you contact the Board HQ in Armagh and ask for a vetting form, if your student requires to be vetted (waiting time 4-6 weeks approx). Contact us for further information.