Teacher reference request form template

A confidential reference request form designed for international schools hiring teaching and support staff — covering everything safer recruitment requires in one structured, editable document.
A reference request form is the formal document sent to a candidate’s current or most recent employer to gather professional and safeguarding information before any appointment is confirmed. This template goes beyond a basic character reference, asking referees to comment on employment history, conduct, disciplinary record, and — critically — any concerns relating to the safety and welfare of children.
The form is divided into five sections:

Background — how long the referee has known the candidate and in what capacity
Employment Record & Suitability — position held, dates, duties, and overall performance
Disciplinary Record & Child Protection — any current or expired sanctions, allegations, or unresolved concerns relating to children
Personal Qualities — an 11-criteria rating table covering teaching quality, professionalism, emotional intelligence, teamwork, and child protection awareness
Would You Re-Employ? — a four-option checkbox (With enthusiasm / Willingly / With reservation / No) plus referee sign-off

Fully editable Word document. Written for international school contexts — no jurisdiction-specific legal references. Compatible with Cambridge, Cognia, COBIS, and WASC safer recruitment expectations.
This form is also included as part of the Primary Recruitment Toolkit for international schools — a complete hiring-to-departure document bundle covering the full recruitment cycle.
Last updated: July 2025.