Tata Interactive Systems (TIS), the global e-learning developer, has come up with a training initiative to a common problem faced by all organisations that work with children: how to provide effective training to the staff, carers and volunteers involved in child protection.

The Children Act of 2004 – which is an extension of the Children Act 1989 – sets out a framework of duties and accountabilities that will help in the development of quality services relating to the needs of children. In addition, a national services framework for children, young people and maternity services has been developed which sets standards for children's health and social services, and the interface of those services with education.

These initiatives have also led to the definition of a 'common core of skills and knowledge for the children's workforce'. This covers effective communication and management; child and young person development; safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the child; supporting transitions; multi-agency working, and sharing information. TIS is working with organisations – including local councils in the UK – to develop custom-built e-learning programmes dealing with all these issues in order to equip personnel with the knowledge and skills needed by all those whose work involves dealing with and caring for children. Given the heterogeneous nature of the audience, the content of these programmes are designed to appeal to as many people as possible.

Each programme – tailored to each particular agency – covers the basics of child protection, how to identify a child at risk and how to develop the skills required to help each child. Among the teaching techniques employed in the programmes is TIS's highly acclaimed story-based learning objects (StoBLs) approach, which uses highly realistic scenarios and stories, interactive quizzes and case studies, along with other learning aids including checklists to present learning materials in a vivid and memorable way.