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Published Feb 2026

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What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service allows employers to keep a candidate’s DBS certificate current without requesting a new check every time they change roles. For just £16 per year, staff can subscribe to the service, enabling schools to verify their DBS status quickly and securely online.

What are the benefits?

Faster onboarding

No waiting weeks for a new DBS check.

Cost savings

Avoid paying for repeated checks when staff move between schools.

Continuous safeguarding

Employers can see if a certificate’s status has changed at any time.

Why it matters for education settings

Schools operate under strict compliance frameworks like Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE). The DBS Update Service supports these requirements by:

  • Maintaining up-to-date checks for staff and volunteers.
  • Reducing administrative burden during peak recruitment periods.
  • Providing peace of mind that safeguarding standards are met.

Experian’s approach: More than just DBS

While the DBS Update Service is invaluable, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Our Candidate Verifier platform integrates DBS checks with other essential screening tools, including:

  • Identity verification under the DBS Digital Identity Trust Framework.
  • Right to Work checks to avoid costly compliance penalties.
  • Education and qualification verification for teaching roles.
  • Social media checks for safeguarding and reputation protection.
  • Employment history and reference checks for a complete candidate profile.

By combining these checks into a single, automated platform, Experian helps schools and colleges:

Accelerate hiring

without compromising safety

Maintain compliance

with Ofsted and Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) expectations.

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Protect students and reputation

through proactive risk management.

Why choose Experian?

Our solutions are designed for education settings where safeguarding is non-negotiable. With Experian, you get:

  • Automation for speed and consistency
  • Customisable workflows for different roles
  • Digital audit trails for inspections
  • Secure data handling to meet GDPR standards