Decision Maker: Council

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: April 8, 2025

Purpose: ? Estyn has published an ‘effective practice’ case study on the Local Authority entitled ‘Leaders securing improvement in a local authority’. ? An updated Education Improvement Plan (EIP) has been co-constructed with stakeholders ? The EIP for the financial year 25/26 comprises of six objectives, which align with the County Plan and national educational priorities ? Inspection reports and letters outlining findings from Estyn interim visits are available via the Estyn website ? Rates of pupil attendance continue to improve but remain below pre-pandemic levels ? Rates of exclusions have reduced but remain high ? The Education Service has continued to provide regular and varied reports to both the Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Children and Families and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee ? Core elements of the County Plan have been delivered including the roll out of universal free school meals, reducing the rate of learners identified as not in education, employment or training on leaving year 11, the community youth and play provision across Torfaen, and delivery of substantial capital investment projects.

Content: Council unanimously agreed to accept the report as an update of progress made within education services.