Purpose

In November 2024, Cabinet received a report which set out the Education Directorate’s proposed response to the Welsh Government Review of the Middle Tier arrangements for School Improvement.

Further to this report, we are now seeking Cabinet approval to proceed with the creation of a new operating model for school improvement functions in Cardiff from September 2025, and a renewed regional model for professional learning and curriculum support through a collaboration agreement among the five local authorities within the Central South footprint.

Decision

RESOLVED: that

1. that school improvement services be delivered by Cardiff Council as outlined in sections 6 - 14 of the report.

1. It be agreed that the proposed Professional Learning and Curriculum Support service, will continue to be delivered on a regional basis as outlined in sections 17 - 20 of the report, and that Rhondda Cynon Taf Council becomes the host local authority for the arrangement.

1. the governance arrangements for the proposed regional Professional Learning and Curriculum Support service should transfer to a collaboration arrangement as outlined in sections 25 - 26 of the report be approved.

1. the financial position as detailed at sections 34 - 35 of the report be noted.

1. Authority be delegated to the Director of Education and Lifelong Learning, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Education, to implement the revised school improvement service models in Cardiff.