This report contains details- of the outcome of initial discussions between Bradford LEA and the DfEE. It explores the benefits of alternative methods of delivering educational services to! schools in Bradford.

Diana Cavanagh: Strategic Director (Education)

SCRUTINY AREA: Economic

PORTFOLIO: Education and Lifelong Learning

Report Contact: Neil Stoddart Phone: 01274 751403

Fax: 01274 773533

E-mail: Neil.Stoddart@Bradford.gov.uk

REPORT FOR CONSIDERATION

Proposals for alternative arrangements for the provision of educational services in Bradford which are in line with the 2020 Vision that was successfully launched on Monday 3 rd April 2000.

2.1 Under the thrust of Modern Local Government, local authorities are being encouraged to consider alternative methods of delivering local services.

2.2 One of the main elements of the modernisation agenda is the new duty of Best Value, which applies to all centrally provided council services. Best Value sets out a framework of scrutiny in which all services will be tested in a rolling five-year programme. One element of this framework is for an options appraisal to be conducted, whereby councils consider alternative options of service delivery.

2.3 The approach has been supported by the DfEE who, through various initiatives relating to education services, are encouraging LEAs to involve partners from outside the public sector in direct services provision.

2.4 In January the Strategic Director of Education and other senior officers from the LEA and Council entered into preliminary discussions with the DfEE in order to explore what benefits a partnership arrangement could bring to Education in Bradford. This initiative is part of the 2020 Vision which puts education at the heart of the agenda.

2.5 It is envisaged that a creative partnership would enable the LEA to deliver improved outcomes in the following key areas:

• Promote a strong vision for education and educational outcomes.

• Link education to the wider social inclusion and regeneration agendas.

• Focus on improving school effectiveness and setting challenging targets.

• Have clarity of purpose with clear targets for performance.

• Maximise delegation to self-managing schools.

• Ensure that schools have access to high quality support and advisory services.

• Support headteachers, other staff, and governors.

• Strong support to pupils and parents in their desire for excellent education.

2.6 A possible model which is being developed comprises the following organisational elements:

• An LEA/Council focusing on strategy and championing the learner.

• The creation of a Partnership Education Board to oversee the delivery of educational outcomes.

• The development of a public/private sector partnership to deliver the Education Development Plan and other relevant targets within Bradford's planning framework.

• Self-managed schools with empowered decision-making.

2.7 From the discussion it is envisaged that, should such a model exist in Bradford, the following benefits would be obtained:

• Setting targets and holding the provider and the Partnership Education Board to account.

• To channel any financial savings from external partners' services back into educational improvement.

• Holding schools accountable for performance.

• Continues to take decisions on school closures or relocation of schools

• A real choice of reliable high quality support services.

• Support and challenge from a school improvement team of proven excellence.

• More funding for the classroom as a result of better value traded services.

• A confident and competent learning community.

• Strengthening the linkages between schools and the private sector.

• Imaginatively harnessing ICT to the needs of pupils and the wider community.

• New community-based education opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.

• Placing education at the heart of the social inclusion and regeneration agendas.

2.8 The next stage in developing a partnership education service would be to firm up a possible model in consultation with all stakeholders. The Council would then enter into a procurement process that secures a partner who has the capacity and capability to deliver services of the quality and price appropriate to Bradford.

This process would most likely be undertaken in conjunction with the DfEE who are keen to see partnership arrangements developed across LEAs with differing levels of performance.

The procurement of any such partner would need to comply with all relevant EU procurement regulations

3.1 A possible model was discussed With head teachers on Wednesday 12th April and presented to LEA staff on Friday 14th April. Bradford Council will fully involve School Governors, Head Teachers, support staff in schools, parents, LEA staff and Trade Unions.

The implementation costs of any changes have not yet been assessed, but it is anticipated that increased efficiencies arising from a Best Value partnership approach would result in a more effective use of financial resources.

Any improvements to the support provided to Bradford schools will increase the access to learning for Bradford pupils.

A new model will lead to a more effective use of the resources employed in supporting Bradford schools and pupils and the wider community.

Full consultation will be undertaken with the relevant trades unions regarding the development of a possible model.

None

9.1 That officers continue discussions with the DfEE with a view to refining the future areas of responsibility within a partnership model LEA.

9.2 That further work be undertaken to produce an output specification in conjunction with the DfEE.

9.3 That a process be initiated in conjunction with the DfEE in order to seek initial expressions of interest from potential partner organisations, following consultation on the preferred model.

9.4 That the Strategic Director (Education) be charged with reporting back to the Executive Committee on the preferred model, the output specification and on any expressions of interest received.

Green Papers, White Paper and Consultation Papers issued by the Government on Modem Local Government.

Local Government Act 1999