Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 9, 2025

Purpose: To approve the detailed framework explaining Council’s vision for education improvement, education offer to Local Authority Maintained schools

Content: RESOLVED   KEY DECISION   That the Executive:   a)      Approved the Education Improvement Framework 2025–2028 as the Council’s strategic approach to education improvement.   b)      Endorsed the continued development of locality hubs to support collaborative improvement.   c)   Delegated authority to the Executive Director of Children’s Services, in consultation with the Executive Member for Children, Families, Education and Skills, to implement and monitor the framework.     Reason for Recommendations: The Education Improvement Framework 2025–2028 is recommended because:   •   It aligns with national legislation and statutory guidance, including the Education Acts and the DfE’s 2024 Support and Intervention in Schools guidance. •   It provides a structured, transparent, and cost-effective approach to fulfilling the Council’s duty to promote high educational standards. •   It supports the Council’s Corporate Plan priorities, particularly in improving outcomes for vulnerable learners and strengthening communities. •   It builds on existing models of collaboration and locality-based support, ensuring consistency with previous decisions and practices. •   It enables the Council to proactively identify and address underperformance, safeguarding risks, and leadership vulnerabilities in a timely and accountable manner.   Alternative Options Considered: The following alternatives were considered and rejected:   •   Maintaining informal or ad hoc support arrangements: This was deemed insufficient to meet statutory duties and lacked consistency, transparency and accountability. •   Outsourcing school improvement functions to external providers: While potentially viable, this option was rejected due to cost implications, reduced local oversight, and the risk of fragmented support. •   Developing a framework limited to maintained schools only: This was considered too narrow and did not reflect the mixed educational landscape of North Northamptonshire, which includes academies, Multi Academy Trusts, and independent settings. •   The chosen framework offers the most comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable approach to education improvement across the region.