Policy Commission for schools moves forward

Shropshire County Council has moved a step closer to finalising a Policy Commission to discuss the future of school provision in the county.

Members of the council’s Cabinet said they hoped the group would become a respected think tank, working to secure the best possible education for Shropshire children.

A report presented to Cabinet today (Wednesday 19 March) set out the qualities desired for an independent Chair. The report said the appointed person should have a national reputation which has led to influence on Government policy issues, as well as a high level of understanding of school organisation and funding issues. A high level of empathy and understanding of rural communities, and urban settlements within rural communities, would also be desirable.

Councillors accepted the specification outlined in the report, and they agreed the Cabinet member for children’s services should work closely with Herefordshire Council and other councils where appropriate in taking the agenda forward.

Councillor Ann Hartley, Cabinet member for children’s services, said: “The independent chair of the policy commission is key to its success, and getting the right person is so vital. It is very much a national issue, and I hope the policy commission will become a beacon for other authorities in this challenging situation.”

Councillor Malcolm Pate, Leader of Shropshire County Council, said: “We have to acknowledge this is a national problem. The main object is to get this absolutely right, and give the commission time to discuss a way of maintaining our excellent school network.”

19 March 2008