The Education and Local Economy Scrutiny Commission met on Tuesday 30 January 2024 to discuss the impact of school closures and amalgamations, the renovation of East Street Market, and the local economy. Key discussions included concerns about Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision following redundancies at Kintore Way nursery, the progress of the East Street Market renovation, and the council's economic strategy and job creation initiatives.

Impact of School Closures and Amalgamations - Human Resources Data

The commission received an update on Kintore Way (KW) nursery school, noting that thirteen staff redundancies had occurred on 31 December 2023, with a significant impact on SEND provision. A five-year budget deficit recovery plan is being created for KW. A report on the broader impact of school closures and amalgamations on human resources data was presented, highlighting that schools manage their own day-to-day HR processes. Concerns were raised about disciplinary data, with 80% of disciplinary cases in the past year involving Black British staff, prompting a request for historical data. The commission also noted that there is a lack of equalities data for school governance and that efforts are underway to increase the representation of Black leaders in senior roles.

An Update on East Street Market Renovation Project

An update was provided on the East Street Market renovation project, which began in September 2023 with funding from the 'Thriving High Street funds'. A team comprising local residents, traders, and shop owners has been formed. The project has involved engaging with traders, capacity-building workshops, and a mystery shopping exercise to assess trading processes. A survey indicated that 80% of customers are Afro-Caribbean, yet only 15 stores cater to their needs. The project aims to address issues such as a lack of seating and toilets for elderly residents, and plans include redesigning the market with benches, pedestrianisation, permanent stores, and improved payment systems. Funding for the initial stage is £12,800, with just under £4,800 received so far.

Cabinet Member Interview - Jobs Skills and Business (Local Economy)

Councillor Martin Seaton, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Skills and Business, and Danny Edwards, Head of Economy, discussed the council's Economic Strategy 2023-2030, which focuses on a fairer, greener, and more resilient economy. Key themes include investment and growth, a greener economy, thriving high streets, inclusive neighbourhoods, and good work for all. The Southwark Skills Plan aims to deliver shared priorities over the next two years, with a focus on sectors such as life sciences, digital, and green industries. The council is on track to meet its target of creating 2,000 green jobs, with 1,299 created as of the last quarter. The SE1 Health and Innovation District is projected to create 15,000 new jobs in digital, technology, and pharmaceutical companies.

The commission raised questions about the delivery plan to get 2,500 Southwark residents into work, support for displaced businesses like Plush, and the provision of affordable workspaces by developers. Councillor Seaton explained that growth sectors are primarily in the north of the borough, with efforts to expand them southwards. He also noted that Southwark is a leader in apprenticeships, creating 25% of all apprenticeships in London. The council's delivery plan targets 250 paid internships for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Work Programme 2023-2024

The commission noted that the next meeting on 22 February 2024 would include a Cabinet Member Interview on Children, Education, and Refugees, which would cover the closure and amalgamation of nurseries. The commission also noted changes to future meeting dates.