normal and abnormal child development

basic residential child care skills and team working

specific child care approaches and skills appropriate to the home’s purpose and function

exercising appropriate positive means of control over children in the interests of their own welfare and the protection of others

recording skills

permitted and prohibited disciplinary measures

use of restraint

child protection

issues of race, ethnicity, religion and culture

dealing with sexuality

health education relevant to growing children including diet and nutrition

the implications of HIV and AIDS when looking after children

communicating with children, including those with disabilities

health and safety at work, including food hygiene and safety with medicines

fire precautions

first aid

the Children Act 1989, the Human Rights Act 1998 and other relevant legislation

the provision of purposeful and enjoyable activities as part of a positive care experience

staff supervision [for staff with supervisory responsibility]

interview techniques [for staff with recruitment responsibilities]

complaints and representations procedures

the requirements of these National Minimum Standards

specific child care approaches, knowledge and skills for their role in the home

working with families

undertaking risk assessments.