The Children's Education Subcommittee meeting, confirmed as held, addressed concerns regarding developmental language disorder provision and the timeliness of family services complaints. Significant discussion also focused on strategies to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia in schools, alongside a financial update for children and families services.

Tackling Antisemitism and Islamophobia in Schools

Neil Marlowe, Chief Executive of Barnet Education and Learning Service (BELS), provided an update on efforts to combat rising antisemitism and Islamophobia in Barnet schools. He highlighted the significant increase in incidents nationally and locally, emphasizing the need for schools to remain safe havens for community cohesion. The council is launching a project called Belonging in Barnet, a Freedom of Religion or Belief-led approach, which includes a survey for schools and the formation of a working group. Training will be rolled out to all schools starting in January, with intensive support for five pilot schools.

Councillor Martha Levy raised concerns about the linking of Islamophobia with antisemitism, arguing for a distinct focus on antisemitism due to its current acute nature, while acknowledging that actions against antisemitism would positively impact other forms of religious discrimination. Councillor Levy also questioned why antisemitism was not explicitly mentioned in the project's outcomes. Councillor Levy's concerns were echoed by Councillor Levy, who advocated for separate, detailed reports on antisemitism and Islamophobia due to their differing manifestations. Councillor Levy suggested that the two communities in Barnet, Jewish and Muslim, have strong relations, and separating the focus would be more helpful.

Councillor Nigel Wildish proposed increased interfaith work between Christian and Jewish schools, suggesting direct partnerships and collaborative activities. Neil Marlowe responded that such initiatives are already happening in Barnet schools, though he stressed the importance of targeting multi-faith and community schools as well. Councillor Coteau inquired about the survey's reach within their ward and offered support in promoting it. Councillor Erra expressed concern that Islamophobia seemed an afterthought in the report and advocated for a broader approach to tackling racism in schools, including between different Black communities. Councillor Erra also raised concerns about the safety of Jewish children travelling to school and the effectiveness of police support.

Family Services Annual Report on User Experience, Insight and Statutory Feedback

The committee reviewed the Family Services Annual Report for 2025-26, which highlighted that while professional decision-making was robust, timeliness and communication remained key areas for improvement. Ravia Zaman, an officer, presented the report, noting an increase in complaints, partly due to the use of AI in submissions, which added complexity. She stated that 46% of complaints were responded to within the timescale, with delays often linked to complex cases. The report indicated that 64% of complaints were not upheld, and only 9% were fully upheld. Councillor Levy questioned the council's strategy for future-proofing against AI-driven delays in complaint handling, while Councillor Lee asked about benchmarking data against comparable boroughs. Councillor Erick inquired about the council's use of AI to support complaint processes. Nigel Wildish raised concerns about the underlying reasons for complaints, particularly in relation to duty and assessment, intervention and planning, and children with disabilities services. Councillor Hulland highlighted the role of language and communication in families' understanding of services.

Children and Families Financial Update Report

Sharon Palmer, Head of Finance for Children and Families, presented the financial update for 2026-27. The service reported an overspend of approximately £300,000, a reduction from the previous quarter's forecast of £700,000, with hopes of balancing the budget by year-end. Councillor Raisel Treatment questioned the budget line for transport, specifically concerning children with special needs. Brigitte Jordaan clarified that savings targets were being met through external residential step-downs rather than transport savings. Councillor Huntland inquired about the Grammar School Projects, which were identified as capital work on St. Michael's Grammar School. Councillor Zeyden asked about the demand driving financial pressures within Children with Disabilities Services, noting an increase in numbers and complexity of needs. The committee also discussed the overspend on the growth fund and high needs block, with the Head of Finance explaining that government relief for high needs deficits was being sought.

Family Services Quarterly Update

Brigitte Jordaan, Director of Children's Social Care, presented the quarterly update. The report highlighted the implementation of the Families First model, aiming for earlier intervention and stronger multi-agency decision-making. Performance data indicated positive progress in initial contacts and referrals, with a reduction in repeat referrals to Children's Social Care. Timeliness of assessments remained strong. Early Help activity showed a shift towards the Family Help model, with an increase in Early Help Assessments. Youth Justice performance remained positive, with a stable re-offending rate. Safeguarding performance was strong, with a high proportion of Section 47 enquiries not progressing to an Initial Child Protection Conference. Corporate Parenting performance was also strong, with positive outcomes for care leavers in education, employment, and training. Placement sufficiency remained stable, with a reduction in semi-independent accommodation use, reflecting a move towards family-based placements.

The committee also discussed the You really are on your own report on the early deaths of care leavers, noting the significantly higher risk of early death for this group. The report emphasized the importance of relationship-based practice and coordinated support across systems. The Joint Transition Tracking Panel was highlighted as a multi-agency forum to oversee planning for young people with complex needs transitioning to adulthood. The establishment of the North London Fostering Hub, a regional partnership aimed at increasing local foster carer recruitment, was also discussed.

Cabinet Forward Plan and Work Programme

The committee reviewed the Cabinet Forward Plan for 2026-27, identifying potential items for pre-decision scrutiny, including financial sustainability in schools and the corporate parenting strategy. They also considered the Children and Education Overview and Scrutiny Sub-Committee Work Programme for 2026/27, noting items such as a review of the SEND implementation plan and scrutiny of the Barnet Safeguarding Children's Partnership.

Other Matters

Councillor Hutton raised a follow-up question regarding young people who had spoken at a previous meeting, and officers committed to reporting back. Nigel Wildish inquired about the criteria for closing schools, and it was confirmed that a working group was developing a sustainability framework. Concerns were also raised about rising vacancies in social work areas, which officers attributed to ongoing team restructuring. The committee also discussed the out-of-borough placements review and received an update on a letter sent to schools regarding financial concerns.