The partnership was launched in 2019 with the aim of highlighting the importance and value of the International Child Protection Certificate (ICPC) as a vital part of the safer recruitment process in British International Schools. By working collaboratively to raise awareness of these vital checks, COBIS and ACRO aim to ensure that children attending COBIS schools all around the world are protected.

The ICPC is a criminal records check for anyone who lives, or who has lived, in the UK and who is looking to work with children overseas. The certificates act as a rigorous safeguarding tool to reduce risk to children in international schools and organisations worldwide. It confirms whether or not the applicant has a criminal history and provides details, including relevant conviction and non-conviction data.

ICPCs have become a fundamental aspect of the safer recruitment process for individuals wanting to work with children overseas in COBIS member schools. 

The ICPC is used by hundreds of schools and organisations around the world to make informed decisions on a person’s suitability for employment or continued employment in positions that provide regular access to children.

Rob Price, ACRO Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted that ACRO is continuing its collaboration with COBIS. Working together is a fantastic opportunity for both organisations to help safeguard children worldwide – something we are deeply committed to.

“Over the last three years we have been able to help hundreds of schools ensure that those who pose a risk to children are unable to take up employment overseas to gain access to them. 

“Extending this partnership allows us to continue and build upon this work to prevent dangerous criminals committing further offences in countries where their history is not known.”

Colin Bell, COBIS Chief Executive, said: “With an unfaltering commitment to global safeguarding and child protection, we are proud to continue our strong and impactful partnership with ACRO.

“As the founding Global Ambassador for the International Child Protection Certificate, we unreservedly endorse this rigorous criminal records check for anyone who lives, or has lived, in the UK and who is looking to work with children overseas.”

“We encourage international schools and other organisations to make the ICPC a fundamental aspect of their recruitment process. Used in conjunction with additional safer recruitment practices, the ICPC is an effective way to reduce risk to children and young people worldwide.”