Although Ian Huntley was employed before the Criminal Records Bureau was set up, it is not clear that its existence would have prevented him taking up the post. The allegations, or 'soft information', were wiped off the record. Surely these sort of multiple allegations should be disclosed where individuals are looking to work with children.
Retrospective checks on school staff who were employed before current legislation would be another sensible move, as would making all staff subject to Enhanced Disclosures. The time taken for police forces to put information on to the register is also a cause of concern. We need to be sure that everything possible is being done to protect children.
Nursery World has some great new series and features starting over the next month. Look out for the first of our 'projects on a poster' next week - a beautiful colour poster with a complete early years project on the back.