Recruitment & Induction Policy

1. Purpose

This policy sets out how I recruit, select, and induct staff, assistants, volunteers, and trainees to ensure they are suitable to work with children and comply with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) 2025 requirements.

2. Recruitment Principles

All recruitment is fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory.

All applicants will be assessed for suitability to work with children, including experience, qualifications, and references.

Safeguarding is a priority; all appointments are subject to satisfactory checks.

3. Pre-Employment Checks

Before any staff member, volunteer, or trainee begins work, the following checks will be completed:

·         Enhanced DBS check (or renewal if applicable).

·         Two satisfactory references, one of which should be from the previous employer or equivalent.

·         Identity verification (e.g., passport, driving licence).

·         Qualifications and training relevant to the role (e.g., paediatric first aid, safeguarding).

·         Right to work in the UK check.

·         Health declaration to confirm fitness to work with children.

·         No individual will be allowed to work unsupervised with children until all checks are complete.

4. Induction Process

All new staff, assistants, trainees, or volunteers will complete an induction to ensure they understand:

·         Safeguarding and child protection procedures.

·         EYFS framework and how it is applied in the setting.

Policies and procedures, including:

·         Health and safety

·         Risk assessments

·         Behaviour management

·         Food, drink, and oral health

·         Intimate care and nappy changing

·         Whistleblowing

·         Emergency procedures (fire, first aid, illness).

·         Staff responsibilities and ratios, and their role in supporting children’s learning and development.

Induction will include practical shadowing and ongoing mentoring until the individual is confident and competent in their role.

5. Probation and Ongoing Supervision

Induction includes a probationary period (if applicable) to ensure suitability.

Performance, training needs, and understanding of policies will be reviewed regularly.

Staff will receive regular safeguarding updates and any relevant EYFS training.

6. Record-Keeping

All recruitment and induction records will be kept securely, including references, DBS checks, training certificates, and induction records.

Records will be available for inspection by Ofsted or the Local Authority.

7. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if EYFS guidance, safeguarding regulations, or Local Authority requirements change.

Date of Policy: 1st September 2025

Next Review: 1st September 2026

Signed: ____________________ (Childminder)