Agenda item

To receive an update report from the Cabinet Member on current and forthcoming issues in this portfolio.

5.1       The Committee received a written update from the Cabinet Member for Young People and Learning who, with support from Ian Heggs, Bi-Borough Director of Education, responded to questions on the following topics:

Covid-19 Management in Schools

5.2       It was reported that the number of Covid-19 cases in schools had reached its peak and were now falling, although case numbers remained high. The focus was on getting the appropriate vaccination information circulated amongst parents and schools to encourage them to get their children vaccinated.

5.3       In response to a query regarding the vaccinations of 12+ year-olds, it was acknowledged that there was some resistance from parents, this did not cause significant concern.

5.4       The Committee requested that their appreciation and gratitude be expressed to all Head Teachers, teachers, staff and Governors for their continued support in keeping children in school under present challenging Covid circumstances with so many testing positive and having to self-isolate.

Schools’ Performance

5.5       The Committee commended Hampden Gurney school for placing 9th in the City’s schools list and extended praise to all top performing schools.

Sayers Croft

5.6       The Committee requested an update on the Sayers Croft review. It was confirmed that improvements in recovery management were being developed, with further recommendations to be made. No further details were available at the time. The Committee continued to maintain its support of Sayers Croft and noted the Council’s ongoing work in ensuring its accessibility to children.

Pupil Decline

5.7       The Committee raised concerns on the declining numbers of pupils in the City’s schools. It was stated that the issue was not specific to the City and reflected the continued decline of school-aged children in Central London and depopulation across the country. It was reported that the City was managing better when compared to some other London boroughs.

5.8       It was confirmed that the data would continue to be revised and provided to schools to enable suitable planning to be made going forward.

Home Education

5.9       The Committee queried what impact parents returning to the workplace would have on children who had been home educated during the pandemic. It was confirmed that cases of home education were being closely monitored, with processes in place requiring regular liaison with parents.

Pupil Funding Formula

5.10     The Committee queried the per pupil funding formula and whether there were any fairer alternatives. It was reported that this was an ongoing discussion at Schools Forum, with no alternatives to the current formula. It was confirmed there would be no cuts to frontline services in the foreseeable future.

School Merger

5.11     In response to parental concerns regarding the decision to merge two of the City’s schools, the Committee sought clarification on the role of governing bodies in the process. It was explained that this would have been initiated by the governors and discussed with both schools and the Catholic Diocese, as well as the parents of attending pupils, before a formal decision was agreed by the Council. The Council maintained that they do not have a policy in allocating schools for mergers.

Free School Provisions

5.12     The Committee enquired about the continuation of free school meals and the availability of children’s activities during half term and Easter. It was confirmed that both would be available. Further information would be circulated via schools, libraries, and electronic newsletters. It was agreed that Councillors’ would be added onto the weekly school bulletin.

5.13     RESOLVED: That the Committee note the continued work and forthcoming issues in this portfolio.

ACTION:

•           To add Councillors’ contact details onto the weekly newsletter distribution list.