Agenda and minutes

The minutes of meetings held on 19^th and 26^th October, 2004 were agreed as a correct record.

The minutes of a meeting of the Christmas Carnival Co-ordinating Group held on 28^th October, 2004 were received.

The minutes of a meeting of the Children and Young People’s Sub-Group held on 12^th October, 2004 were received.

Consideration was given to a report of the Acting Head of Inclusion Support Services, together with a policy document entitled The Education of Children Otherwise than at School, about the policy to demonstrate how the Council fulfils its statutory duty to make arrangements for the provision of suitable education, otherwise than at school, for children of compulsory school age who, by reason of illness, exclusion from school or otherwise, will not receive a suitable education without these arrangements.

The policy recognises that for some young people there are periods in their lives when their medical needs prevent them from attending school or they are emotionally vulnerable, unable to cope with the structures and routines of school, or experience exclusion from school as a result of exceptionally challenging and difficult behaviours.

In such situations, a period of time in an alternative education setting is appropriate to enable the child or young person to move forward in their lives.  Such settings include Pupils Referral Units, Maple House, Welcome Centre, Hospital Teaching and the Home Tuition Service.

The policy focuses on ensuring that Rotherham pupils at risk of social exclusion for a variety of reasons are identified and systems are in place to ensure that each is able to access and receive a suitable education.

Members noted that this policy had been prepared in accordance with guidance issued by the Department for Education and Skills.

Resolved:-  (1)  That the policy be adopted.

(2)  That the current provision for pupils requiring education otherwise than at schools be noted.

(3) That a further report be submitted to a future meeting, providing summary details of pupils being educated otherwise than at school.

Consideration was given to a report of the Acting Head of Inclusion Support Services about the policy to support schools in meeting their responsibilities to promote and implement an anti-bullying policy and practice as part of safeguarding children and young people. A model Anti-Bullying Policy was attached to the report.

The policy defines bullying as aggressive or insulting behaviour by an individual or group, often repeated over a period of time that intentionally hurts or harms. Research confirms the destructive effects of bullying on young people’s lives.

A proactive approach by schools and early intervention to prevent bullying, combined with robust procedures to deal firmly with any reported incidents of bullying, makes an important contribution to safeguarding children and young people.

A guidance folder for schools which promotes excellent practice will be published in December 2004.

Members noted that this policy had been prepared in accordance with guidance issued by the Department for Education and Skills.

Resolved:-  (1)  That the model policy be adopted.

(2)  That the policy is circulated to all schools and their Governing Bodies with a recommendation to adopt the policy.

(The Chairman authorised consideration of the following item to enable Members to be kept informed of the issues)

The Acting Strategic Leader, Inclusion, submitted details of the report recently published by H.M. Schools Inspectorate, entitled “SEN and Disability – Towards Inclusive Schools”.

Information was provided about Rotherham’s current provision for pupils with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Members noted that the report was also to be submitted to the Lifelong Learning Opportunities Panel.

Resolved:- That the report be received and its contents noted.