Issue - meetings

The report was presented to the Committee by Sarah Tregaski -Service Manager - Education Services Trading, Development and Delivery and Laura Greenacre - Delivery Lead – Education Services Development.

It was confirmed that the strategy was launched in June 2022 and so far has been very well received.  It was also confirmed that the budget has been approved from three years.

The following points were highlighted –

·         There has been an upward trajectory with engagement with more schools engaging

·         There are 92 different organisations subscribed to the newsletter

·         Officers are working to identifying good practice and share with colleagues

·         60 professionals attended a recent online training session with very positive feedback.  Attendees stated that they feel more confident providing outdoor education in their own available space.

·         Officers have plans in place for the next two academic years with additional plans to identify further spaces that can be used.

·         There are three potential schools that are interested in being champions for the strategy.

Following questions from Councillor Pete Gilbert and Councillor Jerry Roodhouse in relation to potential additional providers for the strategy, it was agreed that officers would contact the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and local commercial providers of outdoor activities.  It was noted that officers have been in touch with colleagues at the District and Borough councils to look into how they would work with Warwickshire County Council.

Councillor Pete Gilbert commented that while it was good news that the strategy was in place for an additional year, it should really be a continuous offer from the Council.  A commitment from members of the Committee was agreed that they are committed to the outdoor strategy and that the impetus must be maintained.

It was noted that schools can use the webpage to keep up to date with what was on offer across the county.  Officers agreed that more could be done to encourage more use of the website as well as doing more to encourage local businesses to come forward to promote their services on the site. Following further discussions in relation to the website, officers agreed to look into the possibility of adding search filters for the type of activities on offer.  It was agreed that the addition of filters may make the site more user friendly. 

Councillor Jill Simpson-Vince asked for clarification in relation to the measure of success, which is mentioned in the report, asking officers how this was going to be evidenced.  It was agreed that future reports would include a clearer presentation of the measure of success.

The officers thanked the Committee for all their comments and feedback stating that it had been very positive for them all.

The Chair agreed with the earlier comment from Councillor Pete Gilbert in relation to the need for the strategy to continue beyond the agreed three years.