Powys Schools

Motion as voted upon

Concerns have been raised by fellow council members, parents and members of the public following the possibility of reducing the schooling week down to just 4 days has and is being considered by the authority as a mitigation action against rising energy costs and budget pressures.

We note that Estyn stated in their 2021-2022 Annual report-

· Overall, learners’ skills have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. This is especially the case for numeracy and literacy skills, particularly oracy skills. The social and personal skills of a minority of learners have also been affected, especially the youngest children and those who have struggled to settle back in to more ‘normal’ educational routines.

· Learners’ use of spoken Welsh generally declined as a result of the pandemic.

· Restrictions have had a negative impact on learning involving practical elements, including work placements, practical assessments for vocational qualifications and subjects such as music, design and technology and physical education.

· Overall, the progress providers are making towards implementation of the Curriculum for Wales is too variable.

· Across all sectors, there has been a notable increase in demand for well-being and mental health support.

· Attendance, in schools in particular, continues to be below pre-pandemic levels and persistent absence issues have increased

The cost of living crisis is effecting us all and families are facing significant pressures already, this type of idea, even if just a concept at this stage, is un-helpful, ill thought out and one that if carried through would may significantly harm our young people and will only add to home pressures.

In view of these negative findings from Estyn, the importance of supporting our young people, the recognition that budget / financial pressures are not only on the council and the need to ensure a full and proper impact assessment on the Welsh language and Welsh language education in accordance with Welsh Government’s School Organisation Code is carried out before making any changes -

Council accepts the importance of a 5 day attendance at our schools and that no school in Powys should be asked to reduce their school week to 4 days as a result of the councils budget proposals.