SMS Onboarding Process
This page describes the onboarding process for colleagues registering for work with Schools Mutual Services.
1. Initial Contact & Access to SMS Portal
Upon initial contact with our Schools Mutual Services team based in Oxford, you will receive immediate access to our application portal. In the portal, you can complete your unique profile, review, and sign policies, and input necessary references to streamline onboarding.
2. Dedicated Contact Meeting
You will be introduced to a dedicated member of the SMS central team who will guide you through placements and provide ongoing support. This meeting is an opportunity to discuss placement preferences, expectations, and specific needs.
3. Completion of Onboarding Requirements
Finalise onboarding tasks, ensuring all information and documentation are complete and verified for a seamless transition.
4. Placement in Schools
Once fully onboarded, you are ready to work within our partner schools, contributing to the education community with confidence and support from our team.
FAQs
How long does it take to onboard?
Once you have completed your e-sign documents, Right to Work, and uploaded the relevant requested documents, pending your DBS being on the update service and references received the same day, you can be cleared within 24 hours. Usually, the longest part of this process is waiting for references to be returned.
What is the process if I have a DBS certificate but I am not registered with the online update service?
If the certificate was issued within the last thirty days, apply to the online DBS update service. There is a small annual charge for this service. If the certificate was issued over thirty days ago, you will be required to complete a new DBS application through our DBS provider. The cost of the DBS application is met by the applicant, and once registered with the online update service the DBS may be also used with other organisations. A DBS application typically take up to two weeks; however, they may take longer depending on your personal circumstances.
What references do I need to provide?
Five-Year Work History: References should ideally cover the last five years of your employment, focusing on any roles involving contact with children or vulnerable individuals.
Most Recent Employment: You'll need a reference from your most recent employer. If that employment did not involve working with children you will also need a reference from your most recent employer that did involve working with children or young people. If you have recently left a relevant role, a reference from this employer must be included regardless of the period that has elapsed.
Any Gaps Explained: Any significant gaps in employment (usually three months or longer) within these five years must be accounted for.
What if I have worked overseas?
If you’ve worked 12 months or more outside of the United Kingdom or associated colonies within ten years, you must provide an overseas police certificate. More information on the certificate can be found on the UK government website.
What types of placements are available?
Daily supply cover, long-term cover and temporary to permanent roles.
