The Education and Local Economy Scrutiny Commission met on Tuesday 20 October 2026 to discuss pathways to work for young people and the SEND reform plan. The commission heard from young people about their experiences with work experience, internships, and apprenticeships, and received an update on the SEND reform plan from council officers.

Pathways to Work for Young People

The commission heard from members of the Southwark Youth Parliament and Janelle Goombs, a young researcher, about the challenges young people face in finding work experience and employment. A key concern raised was the disparity in how schools provide work experience opportunities, with some schools requiring students to find their own placements, often leading to reliance on family connections. Janelle Goombs shared her personal experience of struggling to find work experience and graduate opportunities, highlighting the value of her role as a young researcher with Groundwork London and Southwark Council.

Councillor Felicia Johnston asked about the sectors young people are seeking opportunities in, and it was noted that while STEM subjects are often pushed, there is still significant interest in creative industries. The discussion also touched upon the types of work experience being sought, with a consensus that internships and apprenticeships are crucial, and that competition is high, often requiring prior skills or knowledge.

Councillor Tory Griffiths raised the issue of social value requirements for council contracts, suggesting this could open up new opportunities for young people. Nick Wolff, Head of Employment Skills, confirmed that Southwark Council has adopted new social value requirements and is working to ensure these commitments are delivered, including work experience for young people.

The commission also discussed the role of schools and parents in helping young people find jobs. While some members highlighted the importance of parental support, others, like Janelle Goombs, noted that schools were their primary source of information due to their parents' unfamiliarity with the UK system. The effectiveness of careers advisors in schools was questioned, with concerns raised about limited resources and generic advice.

Officers presented a report outlining existing council initiatives, including Southwark Works, Connect to Work, WorkWell, and the Southwark Skills Partnership. These programmes aim to support young people aged 16-24 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), or who face other barriers to employment. The report acknowledged challenges such as fragmented support systems, a lack of early intervention, and difficulties in tracking young people's destinations after 18. Recommendations from the commission included developing a youth guarantee with a clear offer and accountable lead, improving data collection on young people seeking education, training, and employment, and ensuring that support is available between now and July 2027.

SEND Reform Plan

Alasdair Smith, Director of Children's Services, and Anna Chiva, Deputy Director for Children's Services Learning and Inclusion, presented the Southwark Local SEND Reform Plan. They explained that the plan was developed in response to national reforms and in partnership with health providers, education providers, and parent carer representatives. The plan aims to improve inclusion, strengthen partnership working, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the local SEND system.

Councillor Felicia Johnston raised concerns about the lack of specific measures for the appeals process and exclusions, and questioned the commitments of health providers. She also asked about mitigations for fraud and roles, particularly in relation to schools in precarious financial situations. Officers explained that the appeals process is a proxy for a system not working, and that while not explicitly listed as a measure, it is monitored. They also detailed work being done to ensure schools are financially stable and that provisions are adequately resourced.

Councillor Callum Fowler asked about measures to support schools facing falling class sizes and the council's proactive approach to reviewing SEND provision. Officers clarified that while mainstream school rolls are falling, demand for special school places is increasing, and the reform plan focuses on expanding inclusion bases within mainstream settings.

Councillor Jasmine Ali raised technical questions about the timeliness of EHCPs and the Experts at Hand programme, and broader questions about Southwark becoming an inclusion exemplar and protecting preventative approaches amidst potential budget cuts. Officers explained that while the national average for EHCPs issued within 20 weeks is low, Southwark is performing above average, and the Experts at Hand model is being developed to provide practical, on-the-ground support. They also highlighted existing exemplar practices within Southwark schools and the ongoing efforts to secure sufficient funding for SEND services.

Councillor Tori Griffiths asked about support for young people during weekends and school holidays, transport to specialist schools for 16+ students, and the role of Pupil Referral Units (PRUs) in the reform plan. Officers confirmed that while the plan focuses on educational provision during term time, there are existing offers for short breaks and family hubs that provide support during holidays. Transport for 16+ students remains within education services, and a transport strategy is being developed. PRUs are involved in the reform plan, with a focus on developing alternative provision.

Councillor Felicia Johnston raised further questions about inclusion hubs in mainstream schools, particularly secondary schools, and the engagement of academies. Officers acknowledged that secondary schools present a greater challenge in developing inclusion hubs, but discussions are underway with academy trusts. They also noted that while academies have local decision-making autonomy, the council is working to encourage their participation.

The commission discussed recommendations for the work programme, including a focus on the youth guarantee, SEND reform, and the experiences of care leavers. There was a consensus on the need for a more targeted approach to scrutiny, with a focus on areas where recommendations can influence council policy and practice.

The meeting also touched upon the work programme for 2026-27, with discussions on potential topics such as youth employment, thriving high streets, and SEND reform. The commission agreed to consider the work programme in more detail at future meetings.

The meeting concluded with a brief discussion on the work programme for the upcoming municipal year, with members suggesting a focus on key areas such as the youth guarantee and SEND reform, and the importance of engaging with parents and young people to inform recommendations.