Issue - meetings

To accept and note the information in the report.

The report was submitted by Cllr Beca Brown  

DECISION 

To accept and note the information in the report. 

DISCUSSION  

The report was submitted and pride was expressed in the Department's performance and the good work that was happening within Gwynedd Schools.  Reference was made to the new school to be built in Cricieth to improve the learning environment and ensure the best resources in order for learners and the pride that existed as a result of the development. It was explained that there had been a delay over the last year to present the new vision for post-16 education, however the Department was now in a position to be able to proceed with this project. Mention was made of the Condition and Suitability project that had experienced challenges at times. Nevertheless, it was reported that the investment in the condition and suitability of Ysgol Bethel, Ysgol Glan-y-môr and Ysgol Cymerau had been completed during the year with work continuing on the sites of other Schools across the County.   

It was reported that the Covid period had highlighted the vulnerability of children in the age groups 0-5 and 16-24 and the well-being and attainment gap by now was one of the main priorities of the Education Department. It was reported that there was inconsistency across the County in terms of the range and availability of services in the early years sector; the project groups will agree on specific work streams and had prioritised undertaking an assessment.   

Pride was expressed in the new curriculum for Wales and reference was made to the public attention given to certain aspects of the curriculum such as Relationships and Sexuality Education.  The opportunity was taken to express an appreciation of the professionalism, support and commitment of the Schools and every trust was expressed in the Headteachers and teachers to be able to interpret and convey this code in an age-appropriate and developmental appropriate way to each child.  

Reference was made to the Education Immersion System that was a new vision and it was noted that the immersion support system was available to every School in the County. The exciting and innovative work that had happened in Gwynedd was mentioned such as the new immersion scheme written and developed in Gwynedd that will be shared nationally. The school categorisation system that came into force in September 2022 was reported on and the Education Department will work with each School that falls into category 3 in the County to ensure appropriate progress. 

To close, gratitude was expressed to the Education Department and particularly to the teachers and all school staff in Gwynedd for their tireless work in a challenging time to ensure the best education for the County's children by caring for their health, safety and welfare and to deliver a huge range of work.   

Observations arising from the discussion 

·                  There was a wish to congratulate the Department for their work maximising the welfare of children and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 13