Agenda Item No
The Vale of Glamorgan Council
Scrutiny Committee [Lifelong Learning]: 1st June, 2009
Report of the Director of Learning and Development
Education 2015
Purpose of the Report
1. To
seek Scrutiny Committee [Lifelong Learning] views on "Education
2015", a draft
vision for the Education Service.
Recommendations
That Scrutiny Committee [Lifelong
Learning]:-
1. Consider the components of
the draft document and comment accordingly.
2. Advise on a draft for
presentation to Cabinet.
Reasons for the Recommendations
1. To
enable Scrutiny Committee Members to comment on the document.
2. To
seek Scrutiny views prior to submission of the document to
Cabinet.
Background
3. The
Scrutiny Committee [Lifelong Learning] has previously received
reports and presentations detailing the range of challenges facing
the service.
4. Members have also considered
and assisted in the development of a range of strategic
plans. These have included Service Plans, the Single
Education Plan and most recently the Children and Young People's
Plan.
5. In
considering the complexity and range of the plans, Managers,
Headteachers and Elected Members have commented on the need to
develop a coherent vision for the service which can provide a basis
for future planning and priority setting. Specifically,
concern was expressed that the service was in danger of being
increasingly reactive and that our obligations to children and
young people needed a more secure strategic framework from which
delivery options could be developed and implemented.
Relevant Issues and Options
6. The
Education 2015 document has been developed following extensive
consultation with key partners and with staff across the
service. The draft is designed to link with the Corporate
framework, whilst establishing a clear and progressive vision for
the Education service through to 2015.
7. The
structure of the document is relatively simple, key purposes are
defined and our approach to delivery is incorporated within a core
values section. Following careful analysis of current and
future pressures, strategic priorities have been defined
broadly. These are not presented in fine detail, but in broad
statements supported by an explanation of the outcomes we expect to
achieve.
8. The
format is intended therefore, to support the next round of Service
Plans where specific targets, inputs and outcomes can be defined
and presented to the Scrutiny Committee for support.
9. The
approach will also support a move to an outcomes based performance
management approach which is consistent with the expectations of
the Welsh Assembly Government and other public sector partners.
10. Draft versions
of the Education 2015 document have been presented to the
Headteacher Steering Group and to the full Headteacher
conference. Details have been discussed with other partners
in the Children and Young People's Partnership who have been most
supportive. Similarly, the document has been considered,
challenged and shaped by School Governor representatives,Teaching
Associations and recognised Trades Unions. Various iterations
of the document have been published on the Council's Web Site for
comment. Most importantly, staff across the Directorate,
supported by members of the Chief Executive's department, have
participated in workshops to develop and refine the draft which is
now presented for Member consideration.
Resource Implications (Financial and Employment)
11. There are no
resource implications arising directly from this report. The
strategic priorities outlined will assist in future budget setting
processes.
Legal Implications (to Include Human Rights Implications)
12. There are no
legal implications arising from this report.
Crime and Disorder Implications
13. Engagement of
children and young people in education and Lifelong Learning will
contribute to the Council's community safety objectives.
Equal Opportunities Implications (to include Welsh Language
issues)
14. The Council's
commitment to equality of opportunity is reflected throughout the
Education 2015 document.
Corporate/Service Objectives
15. Lifelong
Learning.
Policy Framework and Budget
16. This will be a
matter for Cabinet approval.
Consultation (including Ward Member Consultation)
17. None, this
report applies to all areas of the Vale of Glamorgan and specific
Ward Member consultation is not appropriate.
Relevant Scrutiny Committee
18. Lifelong
Learning.
Background Papers
Previous reports to Scrutiny Committee.
Contact Officer
Bryan Jeffreys
Director of Learning and Development
Officers Consulted
Education Staff
Teaching Associations
Corporate Management Team
Responsible Officer:
Bryan Jeffreys
Director of Learning and Development