Safer Recruitment Policy

At MICA, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. To achieve this, we adopt robust recruitment procedures that deter and prevent unsuitable individuals from working with children. Our aim is to ensure a professional, inclusive, and safe recruitment process that aligns with our values and legal responsibilities.

This policy applies to anyone engaged by MICA, including directors, staff, subconsultants, and volunteers. All prospective applicants will receive copies of relevant safeguarding policies, including our Code of Conduct and Whistleblowing Policy.

Equal Opportunities

MICA endorses equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion in employment. All candidates and employees are treated fairly and respectfully, regardless of race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. Our recruitment processes reflect these principles.

Roles and Responsibilities

MICA ensures:

– Effective policies and procedures for safer recruitment, in line with the Department for Education (DfE) guidance, "Keeping Children Safe in Education" (KCSIE 2024) and other relevant standards.
– Pre-employment checks are conducted to ensure suitability for working with children.
– Compliance with Section 128 regulations, preventing individuals subject to restrictions from holding management roles in independent schools or similar settings.

Recruitment and Selection Process

At least one member of any interview panel is trained in safer recruitment.

All recruitment stages, from role definition to appointment, explicitly incorporate safeguarding considerations.

Job Advertisements

All advertisements will:
– Clearly headings that define the job title.
– Accurate reflection of the role, including essential qualifications and desirable skills.
– Absence of any implicit or explicit language that could disadvantage any group based on race, gender, disability, or age.

Shortlisting and Interviews

Shortlisting is conducted by at least two people to ensure thorough and unbiased review.
Any inconsistencies or gaps in employment are clarified during the interview.

Interviews will assess:
– Relevant experience and safeguarding awareness.
– Any employment gaps or frequent job changes.

Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews conducted by a diverse panel. Prior to interviews:
– Interview questions are carefully prepared to focus on the role’s requirements and avoid discriminatory content.
– A courteous and professional tone is maintained, ensuring candidates leave with a positive impression of MICA.

Interviews are:
– Conducted using a consistent and legally compliant framework.
– Evaluated systematically and objectively based on evidence gathered during the process.
– Designed to assess the candidate’s potential to contribute to the firm and to identify developmental opportunities.

If multiple candidates meet the role’s requirements, we may hold applications until the outcome of the top candidate’s offer is confirmed. Feedback is provided to unsuccessful candidates upon request.

Pre-Appointment Vetting Checks

Before employment, MICA completes all required checks, including:
– Full personal and employment history, including explanations for gaps.
– Professional qualifications and references.
– A self-declaration regarding criminal records for shortlisted candidates.
– Identity verification and DBS checks.
– Verification of professional qualifications and right to work in the UK.

References

MICA requires at least two professional references, including:
– Verification from the candidate’s most recent employer.
– References from any employer where the candidate worked with children.
– Clarification of vague or insufficient information in references.

Induction Process

All new employees undergo an induction that:
– Familiarises them with their role and safeguarding responsibilities.
– Includes signing contracts detailing employment terms and statutory rights.

Commitment to Safeguarding

MICA ensures all staff, temporary workers, and contractors understand their duty to share information to safeguard children and vulnerable adults. Information is shared on a need-to-know basis, prioritising public interest in safety over confidentiality.

By adhering to these robust practices, MICA fosters a culture of safety and excellence in safeguarding.

Approved Date 09.01.2025

Lilian Swanson, Associate Director + Internal Auditor

Gavin Miller, Director