The Barnet Children's Partnership Board was scheduled to discuss the borough's Economic Development Framework and a comprehensive report on education standards. Other key topics included updates on children in care and care leavers, and the progress of the Barnet Elected Youth Representatives' campaigns.

Economic Development Framework

The Board was scheduled to consider and comment on the adoption of the Barnet Economic Development Framework 2025-2030. This strategic plan aims to build an inclusive economy in Barnet by translating investment into local opportunities for training, employment, partnerships, and projects. The framework, developed over 18 months with input from residents, businesses, charities, and partners, outlines a vision for Barnet to be a destination for investment and growing businesses, with an economy that benefits everyone. It is structured around six themes: Securing Investment to Benefit All; Supporting Priority Sectors to Grow; Building a Workforce to Succeed; Creating Growing Places to Thrive; Boosting the Green Economy to Work Towards Net Zero; and a cross-cutting foundation of Growth for Everyone. The report highlighted Barnet's economic strengths, such as its role in major regeneration schemes like Brent Cross, alongside challenges like increased foodbank use and a significant disability employment gap. The framework proposes a multi-faceted approach, including raising the profile of Destination Barnet, supporting key growth sectors, creating pathways for residents to gain skills, revitalising town centres, and fostering a green economy. The recommendation was for the Board to consider, comment on, and note the adoption of this framework.

Education Standards in Barnet 2025

A detailed report was scheduled to be presented on the educational standards in Barnet for the 2024-25 academic year. The report aimed to highlight the borough's strengths and areas for development across various educational stages, from Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to Key Stage 5 (post-16 education). Key strengths identified included high attainment in EYFS, Year 1 Phonics, and Key Stage 2 (KS2) assessments, particularly for disadvantaged pupils and those with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Barnet's schools generally performed well, with a high percentage rated as 'Good' or 'Outstanding' by Ofsted. Areas identified for development included improving attendance and reducing exclusions, particularly in Pupil Referral Units (PRUs), and addressing the transition of weaker readers from primary to secondary education. The report also focused on expanding progress and progression pathways at Key Stage 4 (KS4) and KS5, and ensuring the achievement of disadvantaged pupils, those with SEND, and other vulnerable groups. Recruitment and retention of teaching staff, safeguarding, and curriculum development were also noted as priorities. The report provided extensive data on attainment and progress across different demographics and educational stages, comparing Barnet's performance against London and national averages.

Children in Care and Care Leavers: Advocacy Access

A verbal update was scheduled to be provided on the advocacy access for children in care and care leavers. This item aimed to inform the Board about the support mechanisms in place for young people transitioning into adulthood, with a particular focus on vulnerable care leavers, including those with disabilities or health needs. The report noted that Barnet's children's services had maintained a strong focus on care leavers, with leaders and partner agencies taking proactive steps to improve communication and support. Most care leavers were reported to have early access to personal advisers (PAs) who provided consistent support. A dedicated hub offered further opportunities for young people to access wider services, including therapeutic support. While most care leavers were supported well in developing independent living skills and had access to suitable accommodation, the report highlighted that for a smaller number of vulnerable care leavers, pathway planning and accommodation transitions could be more consistently managed.

Barnet Elected Youth Representatives - Campaign Update

The Board was scheduled to receive a verbal update from the Barnet Elected Youth Representatives on their ongoing campaigns. This item provided an opportunity for young people to share their work and progress directly with the Board.

Ofsted Update

An update on Ofsted's findings was scheduled to be presented. This would likely cover recent inspection outcomes and any key areas of focus or concern identified by Ofsted in relation to children's services in Barnet. A focused visit report from November 2025 was included in the documentation, which highlighted that care leavers continued to be a high priority, with proactive steps being taken to strengthen support and communication during transitions.

School Streets

A report on the School Streets initiative was listed, although the document was noted as To Follow. This likely pertains to schemes aimed at creating safer and more pleasant environments around schools by restricting vehicle access during certain times.

Updates from other Boards

A verbal update was scheduled to cover information and developments from other relevant Boards within the council structure, ensuring cross-collaboration and information sharing.

Forward Work Programme

The Board was scheduled to review and note the Forward Work Programme for the upcoming period. This outlines the planned topics and discussions for future meetings, allowing for strategic planning and preparation. The programme included items such as the Youth Strategy, PREVENT, Gaming and Gambling, and Give Local Barnet for the July 2026 meeting.