Agenda item

The Committee were presented with the Service Report Card developed by the Looked After Children Support (LACES) team, which summarised the functions of the team, as detailed in the circulated report.

Members were informed that it was Welsh Government’s intention that Local Education Authorities adopt a more strategic approach towards the delivery of services for vulnerable children. The team provided a wide range of support, interventions and extra-curricular opportunities to ensure participation and enjoyment of learning for children ‘looked after’ and to raise standards for these learners.

It was noted that there were three clear priorities, the roll out of a regional attachment aware schools pilot project, the Neath Port Talbot Wellbeing Initiative and Looked After Children Education Support.

Members commended the Regional Attachment Aware Schools Pilot Project and queried whether all schools had been made aware of the project and if there was still time to sign up. Officers informed Members that schools could still be involved and due to the schools being at different stages it was their responsibility to put themselves forward. It was noted that the project had been promoted regionally through ERW..

Members highlighted that the attendance figures of Looked After Children in primary school was higher than the Neath Port Talbot average and asked if there was any good practice that could be used to improve overall attendance across Neath Port Talbot. Officers explained  that it would be an expectation of foster carers to ensure the children they looked after attended school. Targeted support was also put in place where required.

Members noted that there was a significant increase in attainment, especially at level 2 threshold inclusive of English/Welsh first language and Maths GCSE and queried if there was any specific reason for this. Officers explained that it was partly dependent on the cohort of pupils and there would be variation year to year. It was noted that pupils were tracked through schools and the information was used by the team to identify potential support that may be required.

Members asked if there was any uncertainty that funding would not be continued for these projects and was there a lobbying process to ensure that it was. Officers highlighted that it was hoped funding would continue, however, they had had created a sustainable model through training and cascading of information through schools. It was noted that representations had been made regarding the continuation of this funding at all levels and the positive outcomes and evidence of good practice would help to support this case.

Following Scrutiny, it was agreed that the report noted.