Another example has been drawn to my attention that clearly illustrates my concerns about ill-conceived national and local government interference within the sector.
The Children's Workforce Development Council launched its 'Qualifications Audit Tool' and we are now able to see in greater detail what is to be involved in providing details of the workforce in each nursery setting in the UK.
Some people will be quite concerned at the volume and nature of information requested. Why, for example, is it necessary for this form to concentrate on the ethnicity of the workforce, when it is supposed to be measuring quality and qualifications? Others may question the need for a detailed four-page document to be sent out to each employee, and then presumably checked by HR or an owner-manager for correctness. Could our time not be better spent with the children?
My own fears extend to 'Big Brother'. What is the real purpose of this form, and how will it be used? It is not only the CWDC who will have access to the information, but local authorities as well. Why is that necessary for those of us in private settings?
These views should not be dismissed as simply the concerns of an aged ex-lawyer. As the form is covered under the Data Protection Act, each employee will need to individually grant permission for the form to be made available in the manner proposed. What about those who refuse to give such consent? Such refusal need have nothing to do with the quality of childcare provided, or children's safety.
The Data Protection Act was designed to prevent unnecessary information being centrally held on individuals without their consent. It provides people with the freedom to opt-out. The present government certainly hasn't had an enviable record in looking after such information.
But the main issue for me is how the information will be used. The system was not a week old before we received correspondence from one local authority advising us that failure to provide the completed information could result in the withdrawal of the Nursery Education Grant. Who, may I ask, gave local authority such powers? And why should parents of any nursery lose out financially because one or more employees wishes to exercise their legitimately held democratic right? Perhaps the CWDC can advise us further on this issue.
See news, page 4.