A strategy dedicated to boosting standards in Stoke-on-Trent's schools is set to be approved by city councillors.
At their meeting on 27 September, members of the city council’s Cabinet will be asked to back the proposed ‘Stoke-on-Trent School Improvement Strategy’.
The document outlines a partnership between the authority and schools, and ways of improving pupils’ attainment which include:
- a greater emphasis on inter-school collaboration and support
- constructive, critical challenges to schools, with extra support for those in need
- help for vulnerable children and young people
- developing effective leadership in schools.
The report states: “The overall objective is to drive up attainment within the city, using expertise within our schools, and to prevent schools from falling below standard or being placed in an Ofsted category.”
Under the Education Act 2011, schools have first responsibility for improving their performance. Local authorities have a key role in, for example, promoting choice, acting as a champion for families, supporting vulnerable children and driving towards educational excellence.
Councillor Alan Dutton, Cabinet member for education, said: “Educational achievement is central to the city council’s guiding ‘Mandate for Change’ and the transformation of the city.
“Our vision is to make lives better, by radically improving outcomes for children and young people in the city. This strategy complements that vision. We must do everything we can to give our young people the skills, qualifications and aspirations they need to take advantage of the city’s regeneration.”
The strategy will see schools working together to identify their strengths, share good practice and work out how they could do better.
The city council will work with schools and their governing bodies, assisting with information sharing, providing constructive challenge and arranging support - either from council experts or outside suppliers.
A Strategic School Improvement Group will be the focal point for decision making. Its remit will include deciding which schools need support, and where it should come from.