Warrington and Halton Borough Councils are working in partnership on an innovative new way to support local schools to improve and develop.
From 1 April 2011 the responsibility and funding for some ‘school improvement services’ went directly to schools, so they can now select and buy the support that they require.
However, rather than risk losing their experienced and well regarded support, the majority of local schools are supporting the councils’ plan to work together on a new approach that will mean schools do not lose the current expertise offered to them, and staff employed by both local authorities will not be at risk of redundancy.
The types of support currently offered by the local authorities includes consultant advice for a range of subjects aimed at improving teaching and learning, and leadership and management development to improve the outcomes for children and young people.
The councils aim to develop a joint venture company in partnership with a private sector company which will deliver school improvement services. Staff would transfer to the new company, and schools would benefit from a seamless transfer and continuity of the well regarded services.
A number of very well regarded companies have shown an interest in the new approach, and are currently looking to submit their proposals. If successful the new approach would be a first for the country, and could see other similar previously council led services delivered in this way.
Pinaki Ghoshal, Assistant Director for Children and Young People’s services, said: “This is an innovative new approach to providing services. The two councils will work together to secure high quality staff who can continue to work within our schools. In addition, the new school improvement service should generate a moderate income that can be reinvested in services for children and young people. I am looking forward to the new model being put into practice and believe it will benefit everyone involved.”
It is hoped that this joint venture will be established and ready to start operations on 1 September 2011.
For more information about the school improvement programme contact
Daniel Hennessy on 01519064808
daniel.hennessy@halton.gov.uk