Within the childcare industry, I feel we are waiting with bated breath to see what the Government is going to do about improving the current procedures for Criminal Records checks.  (more…)

Childcare Qualifications: There is much debate as to what makes a good nanny. I would like to focus on training and why it is so important to have a childcare qualification. (more…)

For many years now, we have been deeply concerned about the lack of checks done by Ofsted when nannies apply to be registered.

Just to give you more history on this, the nanny registration scheme was set up to allow parents the opportunity to use their childcare vouchers when employing nannies. Previously parents had only been able to use the vouchers to pay for places at nurseries or childminders. (more…)

In June this year, the Government halted the Vetting and Barring Scheme. There seemed to be a collective sigh of relief, but not from me. I think everybody who works with children, and in particular nannies, should be made to undergo vigorous checks and be registered to work with children.

I do buy that the scheme may have been a little over zealous, but I think that is better than another Ian Huntley case! (more…)