Agenda item

The Committee received the Service Report Card for the Challenge Adviser Team, as detailed within the circulated report.

The Challenge Adviser Team works with all primary, secondary and special schools in Neath Port Talbot and challenge schools on their performance, standards, provisions and leadership. It was explained that the team provided a bespoke ladder of support for all schools depending on need and the national model was used to categorise schools to determine the support required. It was highlighted that the Local Authority knows its school very well and the consistency of teacher assessments had improved. It was explained that there had been one long term sickness in the team, which had been managed through the appropriate policies.

Members noted that the pairing of schools worked well to assist with improvements and queried if this system was going to continue. Officers confirmed that it would be continuing and it was used for sharing of good practice and resources. For example, all primary schools with over 300 pupils would be meeting to discuss challenges they face. It was explained that schools that were paired together tended to be similar schools as it would not be helpful to pair a red categorised school with a green one. The schools had to be able to take the journey together.

Members asked if the results of the visits by the Challenge Advisers ever misaligned with Estyn’s view. Officers informed them that they did at times, but the Challenge Advisers tended to consider different aspects to Estyn. It was highlighted that Neath Port Talbot had a good Estyn footprint. Members commented that the Challenge Advisers engaged well with the chair of governors of a school and they were involved in the core visits and the process.

Following scrutiny, it was agreed that the report be noted.