Summary
Strategic Issue 1
Low educational attainment levels being exacerbated by low attendance and high exclusions.
What needs to be done
- Commission targeted attendance support services (e.g., mentoring, family engagement programmes).
- Expand alternative provision and inclusion support for vulnerable learners.
- Invest in school improvement partnerships and teacher recruitment incentives.
Strategic Issue 2
Multiple barriers exist to early years development, particularly in deprived areas
What needs to be done
- Increase investment in Family Hubs and outreach programmes for speech, language, and communication.
- Commission home learning environment support and parenting programmes.
- Expand early years SEND support and workforce training.
Strategic Issue 3
Skills gap in the workforce, particularly in deprived areas
What needs to be done
- Commission employer-led training aligned to growth sectors (clean energy, advanced manufacturing).
- Expand adult retraining and Skills Bootcamps locally.
- Strengthen links between schools, colleges, and employers through funded career pathways.
Strategic Issue 4
Aspirations are low which hinders the number of residents seeking opportunities for higher education attainment and vocational education
What needs to be done
- Fund sustained careers education from primary onwards using Gatsby benchmarks.
- Commission outreach and mentoring programmes targeting disadvantaged families.
- Develop local mythbusting campaigns and role-model initiatives to raise aspirations.