Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks

You will need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced criminal record check during your first year. Staff in the Division will assist you in the completion of this check.

As part of the DBS check, you will be required to provide three pieces of identification (ID). 

Examples of ID that you can use are:

• Any current and valid passport
• Biometric residence permit - UK
• Current driving licence photo card - (full or provisional) - UK, Isle of Man, Channel Islands and EU
• Birth certificate - issued within 12 months of birth
• Bank or building society statement - UK and Channel Islands or EEA that has been issued in the last three months.

Further information on the types of ID can be found on the GOV.UK website: Documents the applicant must provide.

Students residing in the UK

You will need to use a Post Office ID checking verification route. Please note that there is a cost of £11 payable at the Post Office.

Full details will be sent to you once you register as a student. You do not need to do anything in advance.

Students currently residing outside of the UK

It will not be possible for you to complete a DBS application until you arrive in the UK. 

If your DBS enhanced disclosure shows you have a criminal record

We consider each student on a case-by-case basis and have our own procedures in place to deal with students who have previous convictions, cautions or reprimands.

You are reminded that you must also make declarations to the General Optical Council (GOC).

For further information, please see the GOC's guidance on declarations for students.