Schools are now required to keep records of mandatory Criminal Records Bureau checks on their staff - the CRB also checks Sex Offenders and Protection of Children Act lists.
It is odd that there is no such requirement for the adults involved in private tutoring, tutoring outlets and community-run evening or weekend schools, which are most popular in certain communities. Since those associated with such provisions are not essentially qualified or serving teachers, they are unlikely to have been checked by the CRB.
The concern is compounded because mainstream schools do not always prepare pupils well- particularly very young pupils - to recognise and disclose any child abuse.
With the increased focus on Every Child Matters, perhaps the authorities would like to extend the CRB requirement to protect pupils in all situations.
Husain Akhtar
Independent inspector of schools
Harrow
Middlesex
