Councillor Mrs Beer, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, outlined the report which set out the options for the future shape of the Education, Participation and Skills Department in light of government policy, Council strategy and the statutory requirements placed on the Department.  Members discussed –

·         how further integration could improve standards;

·         the commitment of Schools to future partnership arrangements;

·         Risk.

Agreed to -

1.    approve the attached report to enable the further work to continue with schools to develop a business case for future partnership working.

2.    note the budget requirement of a minimum funding level of £9.2m for 2018/19 for the partnership to progress.

3.    endorse that educational attainment is a priority area for the Council and support the development of a robust plan by the Plymouth Education Board alongside the DFE.