What is a Section 128 check?

A Section 128 check checks the names of individuals who have been barred from partaking in the management of any independent school (including academies and free schools). This is directly according to the terms of a direction made by the Secretary of State for Education. Those who are prohibited are therefore unable to participate in any management of an independent school.

Can I carry out a Section 128 check on my staff?

The following staff are considered to be in management positions:

• headteachers;
• all staff on the senior leadership team (including non-teaching);
• teaching positions with departmental headship;
• proprietors;

The above positions are eligible for the check.  Please note that there is no specific definition available for ‘departmental headship’. Inspectors should, therefore, check that the school takes a reasonable approach in the context.

How do I apply for the Section 128 check?

Section 128 checks can be ordered here. We will need the applicants full name and date of birth.

When will I receive the results?

Orders received before 2.30pm will normally be processed within the same working day, whilst those received after this time will be processed on the next working day. The results of the checks are sent out by email as soon as a result has been attained. If you require results urgently, we offer the Fast Track service which guarantees a result within 2 hours of receipt of the order if made between 9am-3pm weekdays (excludes Bank Holidays).

What will the Section 128 check results show?

1. ‘Clear’ – this means that the applicant can start work, subject to other necessary checks being conducted.
2. If there is a match, management of an independent school is prohibited and we will contact you immediately to provide the relevant guidance.

Interested in safer recruitment for your staff?

OnlineSCR provides Section 128 checks as well as Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), Prohibition from Teaching, Children’s Barred List checks (List 99) and European Economic Area (EEA) checks at a competitive price.

Contact us today to start checking your staff!