Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: November 26, 2024

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED:   1.    That Cabinet approves the Surrey Lifetime of Learning Strategy and its publication.  2.    That Cabinet endorses the ambition of the Surrey Education Partnership that no learner is left behind, and agrees the partnership ambition, principles and priorities for children, young people and adults as outlined in the strategy for 2024-30.  3.    That Cabinet agrees to contribute as a key partner to the ambition, principles and priorities for children, young people and adults as outlined in the strategy for 2024-30.   Reasons for Decisions:   Whilst most of the children, young people and adults in Surrey achieve, thrive, belong and live well, this is not the case for everyone.     In Surrey, children from less-well off homes start school already educationally behind their peers, and this gap persists throughout school and into further and higher education. In many instances outcomes are weaker than similarly disadvantaged learners in other parts of the country.   In some areas of Surrey, adults are less able to secure economic well-being because of skills and qualification gaps.   We are aware that attendance is a significant factor in achieving the best outcomes, and that in Surrey exclusion from school and poor attendance is too high.   Studies have also shown direct links between education and factors such as health and life expectancy rates, with academic achievement playing a potentially significant role in reducing health inequalities by shaping life opportunities.   This strategy will ensure that we take the necessary actions across the partnership, to close the gaps in terms of educational outcomes, exclusions and attendance. It will also ensure that Surrey adults can access learning opportunities, in high quality provision, that develop new skills or secure new qualifications to help them succeed at any time they need to.   (The decisions on this item can be called-in by the Children, Families, Lifelong Learning & Culture Select Committee)