The Education & Skills Service Transformation Committee met on Wednesday 24 July 2024 to review its work plan and receive updates on key areas. The committee approved the minutes from previous meetings and received information on supporting positive behaviour in schools and learner progress.

Supporting Positive Behaviour in Schools

The committee received a presentation on supporting positive behaviour in schools. This topic was previously discussed at the June meeting, where Kate Phillips, Head of Vulnerable Learner Service, had outlined the current situation, Swansea Council's initiatives, and the increasing demand for specialist provision. The presentation highlighted a steady increase in both fixed-term and permanent exclusions over recent years, alongside growing demands related to ALN (Additional Learning Needs)¹ and neurodiversity, post-COVID implications, and the impact of social media. The discussion also touched upon legal obligations and the opportunity to review existing policies. This item was noted as being For Information.

Learner Progress

A verbal update was provided to the committee regarding learner progress. This subject had also been a focus in the previous meeting, where David Thomas, Principal School Improvement Advisor, had presented on the potential development of 'Swansea Principles'. These principles aimed to address accountability, school improvement, early problem identification, the role of governing bodies, and local and regional scrutiny. The discussion at the June meeting also explored evaluating pupil progress through assessment, allowing learners to progress at their own pace, and the importance of shared understanding of progression across the education system. This item was also noted as being For Information.

Work Plan

The committee reviewed its work plan for the upcoming year. The previous meeting on 12 June 2024 had included discussions on potential topics for the 2024/25 municipal year, with Learner Progress and Supporting Positive Behaviour in Schools identified as key areas. The work plan confirmed that these topics, along with learner progress updates, would continue to be addressed in future meetings. The committee resolved that all future meetings in 2024/25 would commence at 4 pm. This item was noted as being For Information.

Minutes

The minutes from the previous meetings of the Education & Skills Service Transformation Committee held on 17 April and 16 May 2024 were approved and signed as correct records.