The Children's, Young Persons & Education Scrutiny Committee reviewed the educational outcomes for North Northamptonshire, discussed strategies for educational inclusion and partnerships, and examined the annual report from the Virtual School Head. The committee approved recommendations aimed at improving educational standards, addressing inclusion challenges, and enhancing support for children in care.

Analysis of 2025 Educational Outcomes

The committee received a report detailing the educational attainment outcomes for North Northamptonshire Council (NNC) at the end of the 2024–25 academic year. The report highlighted emerging trends, improvements, and areas of concern across all educational phases and pupil groups. It was noted that while there are examples of strong practice within individual schools, no key stage currently meets national averages, and the attainment gap for vulnerable learners remains significant. The report indicated that Early Years and Key Stage 1 outcomes are below national averages, with writing being an area of weakness at Key Stage 2. Key Stage 4 results have not yet reached national standards for progress or attainment, and the gap for disadvantaged pupils and those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) persists.

The committee resolved to support the continued focus on improving standards within all educational settings in NNC, particularly local authority-maintained settings, through the Education Improvement Framework. They also supported the work of the Education Effectiveness team in driving this improvement and requested that officers establish measurable targets for improvement at each key stage and for vulnerable groups, with annual progress updates to the committee.

Educational Inclusion and Partnerships

This report provided an overview and analysis of inclusion across North Northamptonshire's education system, focusing on attendance, exclusions, and Elective Home Education (EHE). The committee noted the findings, particularly trends in attendance, persistent absence, suspensions, permanent exclusions, and EHE. They supported the development of a targeted Improvement Plan that draws together findings from this analysis and the Alternative Provision (AP) Review, with a focus on early intervention, relational practice, and reducing the need for exclusion or movement into EHE.

The committee endorsed the continued implementation of the Alternative Provision plan, ensuring a sustainable, high-quality AP offer that meets local needs and aligns with Department for Education (DfE) and Ofsted's focus on inclusion. They also supported requests for the Local Authority and partners to work collaboratively with schools, trusts, and health services to establish a sustained approach to improve attendance and reduce suspensions and exclusions. A further update is to be provided to Scrutiny in 12 months, with comparative data to evaluate progress in inclusion outcomes, attendance, AP usage, and sustainability indicators.

Virtual School Head Annual Report 2024/2025

The committee reviewed the annual report from the Virtual School Head, Charlotte Franks, which detailed the Virtual School's statutory duties, operational structure, activities, and performance outcomes for children in care. Key strengths highlighted included high compliance and quality in Personal Education Plans (PEPs), rigorous quality assurance processes, and strong partnerships with Educational Psychology Services. The report also noted progress in streamlining internal systems, exploring the use of Power BI and AI for data analysis, and enhancing multi-agency collaboration.

The committee requested that officers provide an update in 12 months with clear metrics and timelines, and share best practice and learning across the Council and with external partners.

Children, Young Person & Education Scrutiny Committee - Work Programme

The committee noted the Scrutiny Work Plan as it relates to the Children’s, Young Persons and Education Scrutiny Committee.

Minutes of the Meeting held on 8th September 2025

The minutes of the previous meeting held on 8th September 2025 were approved as a correct record and signed by the Chair of the Children’s, Young Persons and Education Scrutiny Committee.