To note the progress made by the Schools’ Task Group (STG) and the proposal for the consultation process for the STG paper. (Report to follow).

The Cabinet Member ICT, Achievement and Education presented the report and informed Cabinet that the Task Group was reporting back to Cabinet following consultation with head teachers and chairs of school governing bodies.  Following Cabinet’s approval full consultation would be undertaken with the general public with feedback to the Cabinet meeting on 26 November 2009. 

Cabinet was advised of the issues discussed by the task group as:

• Falling rolls;
• Statistical data;
• Financial implications;
• Possible alternative models e.g. federating schools;
• Governance and school leadership;
• Rural considerations.

Cabinet was reminder that the work the Schools Task Group was undertaking was part of a national strategy with a timeline for delivery and was fundamental to the future of schools in the county.  It was noted that liaison needed to continue with school governors to ensure their continued involvement and provide training for governors.

Cabinet went on to discuss:

• The complexities School funding;
• Falling rolls;
• The high performance of county schools;
• Low national funding received by Herefordshire – 147 out of 149;
• The number of schools in the county and the percentage of small schools;
• How to make funding equitable and fair for all children in Herefordshire.

Cabinet emphasised the importance of Councillors attending parish council meetings to discuss the schools report with them and the community at large and to take back the views of the community to the directorate.

RESOLVED

                        THAT:

                           (a)     the process and timescale for consultation on Schools Task Group paper (Appendix 1) be approved;

                           (b)    the process followed and progress made by the Schools Task Group in preparing the paper for consultation be noted.