Issue - meetings

Margot Brown, Senior School Improvement Advisor confirmed that Cabinet had endorsed the strategy in March 2020 and that there was a list of partners who are supporting the strategy in Appendix One of the report.  It was noted by the Committee that meetings had continued throughout the lockdown period and things had continued to move forward.  The following points were highlighted –

1)         Best Possible Start – a list of 50 things to do before you are 5; The programme of activities has been impacted by the pandemic but alternatives have been provided.

2)         Empowering Schools – the Nuneaton Education Alliance has now been established where all Nuneaton schools share good practice, CPD, common purpose and support development in SEND training.  The Committee noted that the programme is being driven by Head Teachers.

3)         Ready for Work and Life – Natalie Williams, Advanced Practitioner Enhanced has recently joined the team at Warwickshire.  Natalie’s role will include the development of skills passports and working with young people who are NEET.

Councillor Colin Hayfield, Portfolio Holder for Education confirmed that he has been involved with the Nuneaton Education Strategy since the beginning.  It was noted that the strategy involves all schools in Nuneaton from those who are outstanding to those who are less than outstanding.  The Committee was pleased to hear that there is widespread support for the project not only from those in education but also the wider school community.  Following a question from Councillor Margaret Bell, the Committee agreed that it would be good to set some targets so that progress could be tracked by the Committee.  It was noted that some OFSTED judgements could be used but the inspections had stopped due to the pandemic and it was currently unclear when they would restart.

Councillor Corinne Davies stated that teacher assessments could be used as a guide for results but that some outcomes could only be checked after external examinations are bought back – hopefully in 2021 following the impact of Coronavirus.

Sophie Thompson, Intervention Data and Project Management Officer confirmed that Coventry University and Warwick University are both supporting the programme.  For example, graduate ambassadors are helping in homework clubs.

Councillor Pete Gilbert stated that he was pleased with the report and the positive signs it was showing.  He noted that it would be vital for Warwickshire County Council to keep delivering the project.

The Chair agreed with Councillor Gilbert, stating that it would be good to see the building blocks currently in place continue to develop.  It was agreed by the Committee that an additional recommendation be added to the report for a further update to be presented to the Committee in six months’ time. 

Resolved

That the Committee notes the progress that has been made since the strategy was endorsed by Cabinet on 19th March 2020.

That a further update in presented to the Committee in six months’ time.