Content

11.1

The
Senior Manager Strategy Policy Performance and Development
introduced the report which updated the Committee on progress with
the programme and sought approval for Sheffield City Council to
continue as the accountable body for this new funding and accept
the grant funding on behalf of the partnership. The report also
sought approval for Sheffield City Council (as lead authority for
YHRP) to commission Higher Education Services for and on behalf of
the YHRP.

11.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Education,
Children and Families Policy Committee:-

Approves Sheffield City Council continuing as the Accountable
Body and accepting on behalf of the Yorkshire and Humberside Step
up to Social Work Regional Partnership, grant funding of
in excess of £1.8m from the DFE
for the Step up to Social Work Programme Cohort 9.
Approves Sheffield City Council becoming the lead authority for
the Yorkshire and Humberside Regional Partnership and in that
capacity, commissioning Higher Education Services to deliver the
Step up to Social Work Programme as detailed in this
report.

11.3

Reasons for Decision

11.3.1

11.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

11.4.1

Alternative Option 1: Sheffield City Council has been the lead authority for the Step
up to Social Work programme since its inception at a pilot stage in
2010. The Regional Partnership is one of the largest in the country
and is highly praised by the DfE for its success. The DfE asks
Sheffield City Council for expert guidance and seek our advice for
new Partnerships and for knowledge of the degree programme. To not
agree this programme would damage the reputation of Sheffield City
council and its 8 regional partners, alongside the Higher Education
Institute (University provider) and the South Yorkshire Teaching
partnership.

11.4.2

Alternative Option 2: Sheffield City
Council wishes to continue to act as the lead authority for Step up
to Social Work within the Yorkshire and Humberside region as it
brings in a significant amount of funding over the 14-month period
which supports our financial situation. We do engage in the social
work apprenticeship 3-year BA Honours degree programme using the
apprenticeship levy however this fast-track postgraduate degree
programme is intensive and at no cost to the council.