Nishkam Nursery recognises the immense benefits that volunteers bring to the setting. In return, we hope to give volunteers an opportunity to exercise their skills in a different environment and to undertake new experiences.
Status of volunteers
A volunteer is not an employee and will not have a contract of employment with the nursery. We will however insist that the volunteer follows all nursery procedures in the same manner as a paid employee to ensure consistency and quality of care and early learning for the children.
Enhanced DBS checks
All volunteers will have suitability checks conducted in the same way as paid employees. This will include an enhanced DBS check. These checks will be conducted before any volunteer starts their time within the nursery and this will also include two written references.
Training
Volunteers will be offered training and/or support as appropriate. We will provide any training and support required for the role, including child protection and health and safety training. The purpose of this is to safeguard and protect the children in our care, enable the volunteer to get the most out of their decision to volunteer and enhance their performance in their voluntary role within our team.
Policies and procedures
Volunteers are expected to comply with all the nursery’s policies and procedures. The volunteer’s induction process will include an explanation of this.
Confidentiality
Volunteers are likely to become aware of confidential information within the nursery either about the children, its staff and parents. Volunteers should not disclose this information and should follow the nursery confidentiality procedure at all times.
Volunteer’s induction pack
On commencing their voluntary work, the volunteer will be given a pack containing:
- General information about the nursery
- A copy of this policy and safeguarding procedures
- A confidentiality statement which will require reading, signing and returning to the nursery manager
- Details of access to all nursery policies and procedures.
No volunteer will be left with children alone at any time.
NB: The setting has the right to refuse entry to any individual should any of the above be compromised in any way.
Updated April 2019
