Decision details

To consider the report of Cabinet Member for Children’s Services seeking agreement for the continuation of the current partnership arrangements approved at Cabinet in October 2011, between the Isle of Wight and Southampton City Council for joint delivery of education support services, including Educational Psychology and School Improvement.  

(i)  To agree to the continuation and further development of the working relationship with the Isle of Wight Council to provide school improvement and  the provision of statutory as well as related education functions for the academic year 2012/13 and the following two academic years.

(ii)  To delegate authority to the Executive Director of Children’s Services and Learning to do anything necessary to support, plan and implement the collaborative working arrangements.

1.  Both the Isle of Wight and Southampton City Councils are seeking greater efficiencies in their delivery.  This joint working relationship, builds on the achievements of the past academic year, enabling both authorities to rationalise delivery whilst maintaining a focus on statutory duties and outcomes for children and young people.

2.  The Isle of Wight Council has a number of statutory responsibilities which it is currently relying upon contractors to fulfil.  This limits continuity or confidence amongst the school community.  A traded services arrangement with Southampton City Council provides immediate access to a broader range of expertise than the Isle of Wight Council currently is able to secure.  It gives some Southampton City Council staff the opportunity to work on a broader scale and will ease the sharing of expertise across schools in both local authorities. 

Not to work in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council to deliver school improvement, special educational needs and related services, would reduce the ability of both authorities to gain efficiencies in the management and delivery of services.