Issue - meetings

To receive a report from Lisa Linscott, Principal Teacher.

Lisa Linscott (Principal Teacher) spoke of the OFSTED respond and how they recognised the virtual school ambition. There has been an improvement in the numbers of child post 16 in either Lisa Linscott (Principal Teacher) spoke of the OFSTED respond and how they recognised the virtual school ambition. There has been an improvement in the numbers of child post 16 in either education or training. It is currently at 66% compared to 52% in the previous year. The Principal also discussed the focus on moving to a creative phase for the school, allowing children to become involved and broadening their skills. Members were assured that children were being celebrated for their progress through PEP meetings and weekly rewards such as book vouchers. They are also celebrated through the EPIC awards. 93% of children were celebrated with this award last year.

The following discussion points were made:

·       Members welcomed the report but there were concerns regarding working with schools where children have been excluded. It was highlighted that this tends to happen with children with SEND needs. Members were reassured that work was being done to ensure children don’t miss out on education and improvements are already being made.

·       Questions were raised regarding Coombe House. Members wanted to know whether our children would get priority if it would be beneficial for them. They were assured that it depends on what is best for the children at the time, some includes children being in care, but this was not always the case. It would be dependent on what is the correct cohort and what is best for those children.

·       Members were also informed of Dorset Steps. Asking schools to engage in training around behaviour. This has reduced the number of exclusions and interventions due to responding to the cause of behaviour.

·       It was also questioned about exclusions from schools. Members were aware that training was being done but there were still concerns around children missing out on education. Members were informed that those missing out on education were currently due to circumstances where children have an education health and care plan in place and have experienced a placement move. Assurance was given to members that they would only look to see what provision is best for that child and what suits their needs.

Decision

That Dorset Virtual School’s contribution towards securing overall ‘Good’ OFSTED judgement 2021 for Children’s Services is recognised.

That the Virtual School’s current priorities and direction of travel are supported by the Board to secure further improvements to educational outcomes for Dorset’s care experiences children.

That further dissemination be agreed.