Agenda item

To submit a report by the Head of Learning and the Senior Challenge Advisor GwE.

Submitted - a report by the Senior Challenge Adviser (GwE) outlining an analysis of results on the work undertaken by the School Effectiveness and Improvement Service (GwE) in orange and red category schools in Anglesey during the period 2014/16.

The Head of Learning referred to the self-evaluation process, and asked Members of this Committee to scrutinise the following key aspects:-

•  How the Authority monitors and challenges GwE’s work?

•  How the Authority knows whether it is offered value for money by GwE?

•  How the Authority ensures that GwE’s work is aligned to local plans and aims, and that key aspects that require attention are effectively targeted?

•  What difference has GwE’s support made to outcomes, achievement standards and quality of leadership in Anglesey’s Amber/Red support category schools?

•  In which schools are the most evident differences to be seen?

•  Which aspects need to be prioritised going forward in order to ensure further improvements?

The Senior Challenge Adviser reported that GwE is working alongside a number of schools, some as case studies, which have been anonymised.  It was noted that the report is based mainly on the performance of primary schools, but reference was also made to the two yellow/red category secondary schools in Anglesey last year. GwE were only working with one of the two secondary schools, which resulted in a substantial improvement between 2015/16. The other school, which was part of the Schools Challenge Wales national initiative, led and monitored by the Education Minister had displayed less progress.

The Senior Challenge Adviser summarised performance against indicators in Anglesey’s schools. He stated that GwE’s key responsibilities were to provide guidance and support, working with local authorities and schools to address any challenges, in order to develop an education system with the capacity, skills and confidence to undertake a programme of self-improvement.

Discussion focused on the following:-

•  The Gwynedd and Anglesey hubs are working well, but still need improving. The model presently used as regards schools’ support has been adapted as a result of Estyn’s findings.

•  Reference was made to the Estyn report in April, 2016, that too much focus has been placed on improving schools in the orange/red category compared to other groups. It was noted that schools in this category require more intensive support to develop their capacity for improvement according to specific needs. The Authority’s best schools are excelling regarding performance, and do not need the same level of support.

•  Members sought clarification on school categorisation models. It was noted that Challenge Advisers discuss and monitor the work and performance of schools. Although Step 1 of the categorisation process was data-driven, final decisions on colour categories are agreed between Challenge Advisers and the Education Authority based on each school’s capacity for improvement and quality of leadership.

•  It was noted that GwE use a formula to make best use of resources to

invest in schools that have greater need for support. Following a period of intervention from Challenge Advisers to improve standards, Head Teachers are expected to run schools effectively on their own.

•  Although there are recognised areas for improvement, positive feedback was obtained from Head Teachers and other stakeholders’ meetings with Estyn about GwE’s new model of working, emphasising the improved support aspects. 

•  If schools do not respond positively to the challenges and support provided by  GwE, then the Education Department has the responsibility to resolve issues and ensure that schools improve. Regular meetings are held between the Authority and GwE, so that schools’ progress can be monitored, and governing bodies are kept informed of developments. Implementation plans are put in place, and Head Teachers, management teams and governing bodies work to agreed timeframes.

GwE Challenge Advisers reported on three case studies in schools, where support, advice and guidance were afforded to primary schools following GwE’s intervention. Issues identified in relation to poor performance in schools were – poor standards; teaching and learning needed improving e.g. numeracy; leadership skills needed to be developed etc. Management plans were put in place for improvement, and progress was monitored and reported to School Governors. During the process of intervention, Challenge Advisers were also required to respond to Estyn’s recommendations for improvement. Following GwE’s intervention, standards in schools have improved due to the level of support schools received together with assistance from Head Teachers, school staff and school Governors, who work collectively.

RESOLVED:

•  To note the content of the report in relation to the effectiveness of GwE’s input in improving outcomes for Orange/Red category schools.

•  To note and support the recommendations of the report to improve schools in the Orange/Red category.