Agendas, reports and minutes

Minutes of Meeting of the Care, Learning and Housing Committee held in the Council Chamber, Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Wednesday 22 August 2018 at 10.05 am.

Present:

Mr A Baxter (Chair), Mr B Boyd, Mrs I Campbell, Mr A Christie, Mrs M Cockburn, Ms K Currie, Mr J Finlayson (Vice Chair), Mr A Graham, Mr T Heggie, Mr A Jarvie, Ms E Knox, Mr D Mackay, Mr W MacKay (video conferencing), Mr G MacKenzie, Mrs I MacKenzie, Mr D Macpherson, Mrs B McAllister, Ms L Munro, Mrs P Munro, Mr R MacWilliam, Mrs F Robertson, Mr G Ross, Ms N Sinclair (video conferencing), Mr C Smith, Ms K Stephen (Vice Chair)
    
NHS Highland:

Ms M Newdick, Prof H van Woerden    
    
Religious Representatives:

Ms S Lamont, The Very Rev S Murray    
    
Non-Members also present:

Mrs J Barclay, Mrs M Davidson, Mr K Gowans, Mrs Paterson
    
In attendance:

Mr B Alexander, Director of Care and Learning
Mrs B Cairns, Head of Additional Support Services, Care and Learning Service
Ms S Campbell, Head of Children’s Services, Care and Learning Service
Mr A Gunn, Head of Revenues and Customer Services, Corporate Resources Service
Mr B Porter, Head of Resources, Care and Learning Service
Mr J Steven, Head of Education, Care and Learning Service
Mrs S McKandie, Benefits and Welfare Manager, Corporate Resources Service
Mr M Mitchell, Finance Manager, Corporate Resources Service
Ms K Ralston, Area Care and Learning Manager – South, Care and Learning Service
Ms N Young, Area Care & Learning Manager – West, Care and Learning Service
Ms F Shearer, Education Quality Improvement Manager, Care and Learning Service
Mr B Northedge, Management of Schools Programme Manager, Care and Learning Service
Ms S Chapman, Communications Officer (Management of Schools), Care and Learning Service
Ms L Husher, Programme Officer (Management of Schools), Care and Learning Service
Ms J Douglas, Care and Learning Alliance (Third Sector)
Ms G Newman, Highland Children’s Forum (Third Sector)
Ms S Blyth, Highland Parent Council Partnership
Miss J Maclennan, Principal Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Miss M Murray, Committee Administrator, Chief Executive’s Office
Mrs C MacIver, Committee and Elections Officer, Chief Executive’s Office

Also in attendance:

Mr A Johnston, Project Director, Highland Science Skills Academy

An asterisk in the margin denotes a recommendation to the Council.  All decisions with no marking in the margin are delegated to the Committee.

Mr A Baxter in the Chair

Business

1.    Apologies for Absence
Leisgeulan

Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Ms J Macdonald and Ms M Roberts.

2.    Declarations of Interest
Foillseachaidhean Com-pàirt

The Committee NOTED the following declarations of interest:-

Item 6 – Mr A Christie and Mr A Jarvie (both non-financial)
Item 8 – Mr A Christie (financial)
Item 9 – Mr A Christie (financial)
Item 10 – Mr A Christie (financial)
Item 11 – Mr A Christie (financial) and Mr G Ross (non-financial)
Item 14 – Mr A Graham (financial)
Item 16 Part 2a – Ms L Munro (non-financial)
Item 21v – Mr A Christie (financial)
Item 21vii – Mr A Christie (financial)
Item 21viii – Mr A Christie (non-financial)

3.    Recess Powers
Cumhachdan Fosaidh

The Committee NOTED that the recess powers granted by the Council at its meeting on 28 June 2018 had not been exercised in relation to the business of the Committee.

4.    Outstanding Achievements
Coileanaidhean Air Leth

There had been tabled a list of outstanding achievements by people and groups.

In addition, a number of headline figures were provided in relation to SQA examination results and it was explained that, when the official data became available in mid-September, officers would support schools to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement, with a particular focus on progress in closing the attainment gap.

Reference was also made to the significant increase in online courses and Members’ concerns regarding success levels.  Results had now started to come in and, whilst not all the information was available at this stage, 67% of those who had presented for exams, which ranged from National 5 to Advanced Higher, had passed, which was a good pass rate.

Members having commented that they looked forward to the opportunity to discuss and scrutinise the official SQA data at a future meeting, the Committee:-

i.    NOTED the outstanding achievements; and
ii.    AGREED that the Director of Care and Learning write to all those involved in recognition of their success.

5.    Presentation: Science Skills Academy – Progress Update
Taisbeanadh: Acadamaidh Sgilean Saidheans – Cunntas air Adhartas

Andrew Johnston, Project Director, gave a presentation on the Highland Science Skills Academy, an initiative to increase the proportion of young people who were able to take advantage of the growing opportunities in life sciences, renewable energy and digital technologies.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• the progress on the Newton Room in Caol and the impact it would have on young people in Lochaber was welcomed;
• information was sought and provided on how the Academy was linking with local employers in relation to the establishment of Newton Rooms and how they would be used; and whether the Academy had a role in countering the widespread attitude amongst girls that STEM subjects and a career in a STEM-related industry were not for them;
• disappointment having been expressed that progress did not appear to have been made in relation to Newton Rooms in Skye and Lochalsh, an update was provided in that regard;
• reference was made to the lack of computing science activity on the west coast, and the need to continue to be active in those communities was emphasised; and
• the contribution of the former Leader of the Council, Drew Hendry MP to establishing the Academy was recognised.  Tribute was also paid to the role of Audrey MacIver, Director of Energy and Low Carbon, Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The Committee otherwise NOTED the presentation.

6.    Advice and Information Services: End of Year Monitoring 2017/18
Seirbheisean Comhairle agus Fiosrachaidh: Sgrùdadh Deireadh Bliadhna 2017/18

Declarations of Interest: Mr A Christie and Mr A Jarvie declared non-financial interests as General Manager of Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) and a Director of Inverness CAB respectively but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that their interests did not preclude their involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/20/18 dated 2 August 2018 by the Depute Chief Executive and Director of Corporate Resources.

In introducing the report, the Head of Revenues and Customer Services drew attention to the Minutes of the Poverty and Inequalities Working Group at item 21viii on the agenda which included a decision that the Leader of the Council write to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions expressing concern regarding the financial burdens incurred by Councils as a result of Universal Credit, including the rent arrears set out in the report.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• thanks were expressed to the Benefits and Welfare Manager and her team, as well as Citizens Advice Bureaux, who did an outstanding job of helping customers, as evidenced in section 5.1 of the report which set out the benefit gain over the past two financial years.  The financial gains not only ensured residents received their full benefit entitlement but had a much wider social and economic impact in Highland;
• concern was expressed regarding the increase in rent arrears by tenants not in receipt of benefits and it was questioned whether enough was being done to help them regularise their rent accounts;
• over time, Universal Credit had had a significant detrimental impact on people’s confidence and made them lurch towards poverty, and it was important to be aware of the pain and misery it had caused.  In addition, it took up an inordinate amount of staff time in a variety of public agencies and the money that could be diverted into society if that was not the case was significant.  The Council had been at the forefront, nationally, of drawing out the issues and, through the establishment of the Welfare Reform Working Group (now the Poverty and Inequalities Working Group) and engaging with MPs and the Department for Work and Pensions, had done a good job of trying to address them.  However, many solutions were outwith the Council’s control and it was hoped that the Scottish Government, when it had more powers to deal with benefits, would take steps to mitigate the situation;
• from a public health perspective, debt was a huge societal issue and the work taking place to reduce it was welcomed;
• further information was sought, and provided, on the preventative approach referred to in section 6.3 of the report;
• the Leader of the Council explained that lobbying in relation to Universal Credit had taken place from the start, the most recent success, thanks to the hard work of the staff involved, being the removal of housing benefit for temporary accommodation from Universal Credit.  The next area of focus was the removal of all housing benefit from Universal Credit, which would eliminate many of the debt problems people had.  Another issue was the length of time payments took to come through, which had resulted in increased foodbank use.  Any Members who had an opportunity to speak with Westminster MPs were encouraged to use their influence to lobby in relation to Universal Credit issues; and
• keys being issued for houses that were apparently not ready for occupation – eg no floor coverings, cooker etc – and people having to wait for emergency loans were adding to the problem and leading to delays in receipt of rent revenue.

Thereafter, the Committee NOTED:-

i.    the 15.4% overall increase in the number of customers reached by the Council’s Welfare Support team and Citizens Advice Bureaux during 2017/18;
ii.    that financial gains for customers exceeded £24 million (+22.9%) which was mainly attributable to Universal Credit and challenging adverse decisions relating to Employment and Support Allowance/Personal Independence Payment;
iii.    the downward movement to £16.5 million (-15.5%) in the amount of debt presented; and
iv.    the increase in the number of tenants in receipt of Universal Credit which accounted for  £1.3m of the Council’s £2.5m total rent arrears at March 2018.

7.    Care and Learning Revenue Budget Monitoring 2018/19
Sgrùdadh Buidseat Teachd-a-steach a’ Chùraim agus an Ionnsachaidh 2018/19

There had been circulated Report No CLH/21/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

Introducing the report, the Director of Care and Learning provided an update on Aviemore Pool, explaining that discussions were ongoing and officers were optimistic that a satisfactory conclusion would be reached.  Local Members would be kept informed.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to Education Support and the variance relating to the cost of disclosure checking, an update was sought, and provided, on whether the disclosure process had been simplified;
• reference was made to Unallocated Corporate Savings, the ongoing pressure relating to children in out of authority placements, and the development of a budget recovery plan, which appeared to be required at an earlier stage than in previous years.  In that regard, concern was expressed that there would be a moratorium on the filling of posts, particularly in the area of Additional Support Needs (ASN) which would impact on the most vulnerable young people in schools, and information was sought, and provided, on the measures being taken.  The Leader of the Council explained that the papers for the Corporate Resources Committee on 29 August would contain statements on how it was intended to balance the revenue budget.  It was hugely challenging and, given the ongoing and increasing Scottish Government cuts to Local Authority funding, the Administration was acting early so as not to impact on already depleted Council Reserves.  It was emphasised that there was no moratorium in place and concern was expressed that such a statement would cause alarm amongst parents and carers of children with ASN; and
• in relation to increased pupil rolls and staffing levels in special schools being offset by vacancies elsewhere in ASN teams, an assurance was sought that, going forward, a more sustainable solution would be put in place.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.    AGREED the revenue budget projected overspend position for the year to 30 June 2018; and
ii.    NOTED the update provided regarding Aviemore pool.

8.    Care and Learning Service Plan 2018-22
Plana Seirbheis a’ Chùraim agus an Ionnsachaidh 2018-22

Declarations of Interest:

Mr A Christie declared a financial interest in this item as a Non-Executive Director of NHS Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

Mr G Ross declared a non-financial interest in this item as his mother and mother-in-law were care home residents but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/22/18 dated 14 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• reference was made to the significant number of Plans in existence, many of the themes of which were interrelated, and it was questioned whether there were too many and whether there was any means of simplifying them.  The Chair confirmed that this merited consideration;
• it would be useful to see how the various Plans interacted with each other to deliver outcomes, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure the envisaged improvements were achieved was emphasised.  In relation to the Care and Learning Service Plan in particular, it would be helpful to revisit it throughout the year and see how it related to the performance information in other Committee reports.  The Chair confirmed that consideration would be given to how that could be addressed;
• the importance that had been attached to schools creating Plans that met the needs of their communities and young people, with a particular focus on closing the attainment gap, was emphasised.  It was important that the Care and Learning Service supported school staff in that regard and to understand the number of other Plans they received;
• reference having been made to Education Scotland’s concerns regarding mixed outcomes from school inspections, an update was sought, and provided, regarding the working group that had tasked with examining how schools could be better prepared for inspection;
• attention was drawn to an error in the ASN staffing establishment on page 21 of the papers and it was confirmed that this would be corrected;
• whilst the organisational chart on page 22 of the papers demonstrated the lines of demarcation, it would be interesting to see a chart which showed how the various services and posts interrelated; and
• information was sought, and provided, regarding the RAG status and reporting of the risks set out on page 29 of the papers.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.    APPROVED the draft Service Plan for 2018-22, subject to the correction of the Additional Support Needs staffing establishment on page 21 of the Committee papers;
ii.    AGREED that consideration be given to whether there was any means of simplifying the significant number of Plans that existed; and
iii.    AGREED that consideration be given to reporting on the delivery of the Service Plan throughout the year; and how it related to the performance information in other Committee reports.

9.    Performance Report – Children’s Services
Aithisg Choileanaidh – Seirbheisean Chloinne

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Christie declared a financial interest in this item as a Non-Executive Director of NHS Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/23/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

The Committee:-

i.    scrutinised and NOTED the performance information; and
ii.    NOTED the information provided on quality improvement.

10.    NHS Highland Assurance Report
Aithisg Barantais NHS na Gàidhealtachd

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Christie declared a financial interest in this item as a Non-Executive Director of NHS Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/24/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• the Chair thanked the Head of Children’s Services for highlighting the national challenge in terms of recruitment across the health sector, which was particularly acute in Highland.  The Council had also experienced difficulties recruiting to a range of professions, particularly teachers, and it was one of the biggest challenges being faced at both local and national level;
• information was sought, and provided, on how Health Visitor vacancies/workload were managed operationally to ensure that the right people were getting the right interventions at the right time;
• the Council and NHS Highland needed to work together to address workforce challenges;
• the fact that UHI could now train nurses was encouraging and it was hoped that, going forward, there might be opportunities to provide training for a range of professionals;
• the Leader of the Council commended the Care and Learning Service for its substantial efforts in relation to workforce planning and welcomed Heads of Services in different disciplines talking about a “grow your own” approach.  She added that the Council now had a robust workforce plan and the Head of People and ICT had been working on cooperating with partners such as NHS Highland and Highlands and Islands Enterprise;
• breastfeeding rates remained disappointingly low and it was suggested that a meeting was required to discuss how to substantially improve the position.  It having been queried whether funding was available, the Director of Public Health, NHS Highland, explained that the Scottish Government appeared to be considering training a new cohort of staff, NHS Highland having been approached in relation to whether it would be in a position to facilitate additional training.  However, he had not had sight of any financial figures; and
• the Chair highlighted that he had attended the recent induction event for probationer teachers and had met some of the Council’s 25 Canadian recruits, 13 of whom had already started in schools, who would make a useful and important contribution to the education system in Highland.  Officers had put a lot of work into the recruitment initiative, which had halved the number of teacher vacancies, and it was suggested that it be deployed more widely.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.    scrutinised and NOTED the data and issues raised in the report;
ii.    AGREED to support the revised training programme for School Nursing and the use of the pay differential to fund the course fees, as set out in paragraph 7.3 of the report; and
iii.    AGREED to the appointment of three additional Practice Teachers on a two-year secondment, and the use of the Health Training budget to fund the course fees and the Practice Teacher costs as set out in paragraph 7.3 of the report.

11.    Adult Social Care Update
Cunntas às Ùr mu Chùram Sòisealta Inbheach

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Christie declared a financial interest in this item as a Non-Executive Director of NHS Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interest did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/25/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

In introducing the report, the Chair of the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee thanked the Interim Director of Finance and the Planning and Performance Manager, NHS Highland, for the helpful Members’ workshops they had undertaken on NHS finances and performance indicators.  She also thanked the Committee Administrator for her efforts in minuting the Sub-Committee’s wide-ranging and challenging discussions.

She went on to speak in amplification of the key themes identified in the report.  In particular, she welcomed the introduction of a variable care at home tariff which addressed the needs of urban, remote and rural areas.  Care at home was the default position and it was necessary to focus as much effort on it as possible.  In relation to care homes, she referred to the focus on maintaining quality and the associated challenges, as well as the challenges in rural areas where economies of scale could not be achieved and it was necessary to explore alternative models.  With regard to the joint transitions team, the aim was to ensure that children’s and adult services worked together to provide consistent support for young people with a disability and she looked forward to seeing how it progressed.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• in relation to the Dail Mhor initiative in Strontian, it was right to recognise the key role of the community and, whilst it was now pleased with the outcome, it was hoped that lessons would be learned and, in the future, conversations would take place with local communities before decisions were made.  In addition, reference was made to a similar situation in the village of Tongue and the surrounding area, and a plea was made that the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee try and progress matters as communities on the north coast had been waiting for an improved service for a number of years;
• information was sought, and provided, on progress with the joint strategic plan for adult social care and the governance route for approval of the plan by the Council; and
• concern was expressed regarding the shortage of care at home staff and the need to encourage people to join the care sector was emphasised.

The Committee otherwise NOTED the contents of the report and the highlighted items from the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee.

12.    Statutory Consultation – Altnaharra Primary School
Co-chomhairle Reachdail – Bun-Sgoil Allt na h-Eirbhe

There had been circulated Report No CLH/26/18 dated 31 July 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

The Committee AGREED to proceed to statutory consultation on the proposal to discontinue the provision of education at Altnaharra Primary School.

13.    Sustainable Education in Highland Communities: Update
Foghlam Seasmhach ann an Coimhearsnachdan na Gàidhealtachd: Cunntas às Ùr

There had been circulated Report No CLH/27/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the following issues were raised:-

• equity of opportunity was central to the Sustainable Education in Highland Communities (SEHC) programme;
• enthusiasm having been expressed for the partnership with e-Sgoil, the Chair welcomed the cross-party support for what was an important project;
• Members welcomed time being taken to consider the way the curriculum was delivered and advocated an innovative model with as little common timetabling as possible;
• on the point being raised, the Chair provided an assurance that engagement with Members would continue to be a central part of the process, and he commended the excellent work of area staff in terms of involving Members in the work taking place in Wick and Thurso.  He added that Members also had a responsibility to be involved and, having referred to disappointing attendance at previous Members’ seminars on the programme, sought the assistance of Committee Members in encouraging colleagues across the Council to engage;
• an assurance was sought that Business Managers would not be appointed instead of teaching staff and that the two roles would remain distinct in whatever model was agreed;
• in relation to the Team Leader pilots, whilst there were real options for success in 3-18 campuses and smaller schools, concern was expressed regarding larger schools where administrative assistants already performed, to a large extent, the Team Leader role, and it was suggested that be explored further before overhauling the structure unnecessarily.  In addition, there appeared to be some tensions between the feedback from Head Teachers and Team Leaders, and clerical assistants.  Whilst there were some positive responses, there were a number of more negative responses which indicated that, in some areas, people saw it as a transference of workload and responsibility from management to office staff, and it was suggested that be further analysed before matters progressed.  In relation to the proposed review of school office support in Mallaig High School Associated School Group (ASG), it was suggested that a parallel review be carried out in a large urban school to establish if there was a split between rural and urban areas.  Finally, information was sought, and provided, on the status of school office support in the schools where pilots had concluded;
• what a school looked like was continually changing, and the need to support all school staff, particularly Head Teachers and managers, was emphasised;
• it was important Head Teachers were at the centre of management of staff and lines of communication and management responsibilities were closely aligned;
• the opportunity to study a greater number of subjects had an impact on what young people decided to do later in life and information was sought, and provided, on the number of subject choices in the senior phase;
• further information on e-learning would be beneficial for both Members and parents;
• Inverness High School ASG had the highest indicators of multiple deprivation in Highland and information was sought, and provided, on the timescale and plan for engagement so that the community could be informed;
• the Leader of the Council emphasised the significance of the programme in terms of sustaining small rural schools and expressed thanks to all staff involved.  She referred to the Team Leader pilot at Kilchuimen 3-18 campus and welcomed the feedback regarding increased capacity to focus on educational activities, and increased morale and confidence amongst school office staff leading to greater productivity and task ownership.  In relation to Caithness, she commended Local Members for their engagement with education.  E-learning was remarkable and had a key role in the future of education, not only in remote and rural schools but in all schools.  However, in many smaller communities children had broadband at school but not at home and the roll out of the R100 programme was an absolute priority; and
• the Chair concurred with the Leader’s comments regarding the significance of the programme and expressed particular thanks to the Programme Manager.  The programme was not only about sustaining small rural schools but about creating a teaching community that was attractive, thereby enabling the Council to recruit and retain teaching staff and sustain communities across Highland where the provision of education was central.

Thereafter, the Committee:-

i.    NOTED the progress on the proposals presented to the May Committee:
ii.    AGREED to support the review of a revised school office support structure for Mallaig High School Associated School Group, and that consideration be given to carrying out a parallel review in a large urban school;
iii.    NOTED the processes being put in place for the delivery of Workstream 1 - Improving Education Outcomes; and
iv.    AGREED to endorse the formal relationship being set up with e-Sgoil.

14.    Gaelic Medium Education
Foghlam tron Ghàidhlig

Declaration of Interest: Mr A Graham declared a financial interest in this item as an employee of Bòrd na Gàidhlig and left the Chamber for the duration of the item.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/28/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

Prior to debate, the Chairman referred to the summit on the Gaelic Language Plan held by the Deputy First Minister in Perth held on 9 August.  This had been attended by Councillor Mackinnon, the Chair of the Council’s Gaelic Strategy Group and the Director of Care and Learning together with other senior Members and officers from across Scotland.  The aim was not only to increase Gaelic Medium Education (GME) but also its development and promotion in society.  In calling for a collaborative approach a number of work streams had been agreed and the Deputy First Minister had indicated a stocktake would take place in August 2019 to discuss about progress.

In addition, reference was made to the support provided by Highland Council and Bòrd na Gàidhlig to the Care and Learning Alliance to support Gaelic Medium toddler groups.  The exposure to Gaelic also benefited parents and, to support those parents wanting to set up new toddler groups, an e-module has been produced, a copy of which would be circulated to Members to promote in their own Wards.

In discussion, the following points were made:-

• whilst the increase of the number of young people entering GME at Primary School was welcomed, disappointment was expressed that the number of pupils presented for exams throughout Scotland at SCQF levels 3-5 had dropped.  This suggested that, despite the investment made in early years and primary GME, this did not translate to secondary schools.  This was due in part to the lack of support for pupils in the senior phase who wanted to take courses in Gaelic but who did not have the opportunity to do so;
• recognition by the Deputy First Minister of the need to have a more strategic approach to recruiting and retaining Gaelic Medium teachers was welcomed.  However, it was essential that teachers were properly skilled;
• Blasad Gàidhlig Fèisgoil, an active learning experience in aspects of Gaelic language, culture and music to further support the 1+2 Language Learning initiative, had proved successful.  Provided externally by skilled musicians, storytellers etc, this released pressure on teachers and it was hoped this initiative would continue;
• the Council’s partners, such as Fèisean nan Gàidheal, could be used to cover teachers undertaking Professional Development training opportunities;
• although money had been provided by the Scottish Government to provide a new Gaelic Medium School, the Council had not committed any specific resources.  However, in recognising the severe roll pressures, particularly in Inverness, difficult decisions had to be made and the Scottish Government allocation would only fund a proportion of the costs of a new GME school;
• a briefing for Inverness Members was to be provided in early September on roll pressures in Inverness, including Gaelic Medium.  As it was suggested that this might have implications for other areas, the Chairman confirmed the briefing would be open to any Member wishing to attend.  He assured Members no decisions would be taken outwith the Committee; and
• there was one GME school in Badenoch and Strathspey but it too was under pressure and a longer term strategy was required.

The Committee:-

i.    scrutinised and NOTED the report; and
ii.    AGREED to endorse the guidance on Meeting Additional Support Needs in Gaelic Medium Education.

15.    Regional Improvement Plan
Plana Leasachaidh Roinneil

There had been circulated Report No CLH/29/18 dated 7 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the content of the Northern Alliance Regional Improvement Plan (Phase 2); and
ii.    AGREED to endorse the work of the Northern Alliance, Regional Improvement Collaborative.

16.    Closing the Attainment Gap
A’ Dùnadh a’ Bheàirn Bhuileachaidh

Part 1: Update on Emerging Literacy
Pàirt 1: Cunntas às Ùr mu Litearras a’ Tighinn am Bàrr

There had been circulated Report No CLH/30/18 dated 23 July 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning. 

A summary was provided on progress with the Emerging Literacy developmental approach taken to match the teaching and learning of foundational literacy skills to the needs of children in the early stages, all facilitated through the lead agency model, and now embedded in around 300 schools across the north of Scotland, around a third of which were in Highland.

The Committee NOTED:-

i.    the progress being made through this approach to literacy development and the benefits achieved for children in the schools that used it; and
ii.    the wider benefits of sharing this approach across the Northern Alliance.

Part 2a: Highland Children's Forum Consultation about the issue of Children and Young People not in Full-time Education
Pàirt 2a: Co-chomhairle Fòram Chloinne na Gàidhealtachd mu Chloinn is Dhaoine Òga nach eil ann am Foghlam Làn-ùine

Declaration of Interest: Ms L Munro declared a non-financial interest in this item as a Committee Member of Highland Children’s Forum but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that her interest did not preclude her involvement in the discussion.

There had been circulated Report No CLH/31/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

Gillian Newman, Highland Children’s Forum, gave a presentation and provided a detailed summary of feedback obtained from children and young people, parents and carers, and educational professionals. Their respective priorities included, for children and young people: social inclusion, learning and understanding from their teachers; for parents: positive relationships with flexible teachers, and good partnership working with school; and for professionals: person centred practice and good partnership working. The barriers and challenges to adopting good practice were outlined, and person-centred practice was highlighted as key to success in overcoming these. All recommended practices were already included in policies and procedures, however increased consistency in application would be beneficial.

During discussion it was pointed out that it was a legal requirement to make reasonable adjustments for children with additional support needs and not a matter of discretion.

The Committee NOTED the presentation and briefing provided by Highland’s Children’s Forum.

Part 2b: Inclusive Education: Schools Exclusions and Part-time Education
Pàirt 2b: Foghlam In-ghabhalach: Às-dùnaidhean Sgoile agus Foghlam Pàirt-ùine

There had been circulated Report No CLH/32/18 dated 31 July 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

A presentation was provided on the current national context and best practice for creating inclusive education in relation to pupils with social, emotional and behavioural needs, and how the national guidance had been interpreted in Highland to support school staff, pupils and parents. While much of the data focussed on negative behaviours, this was an essential means of tracking successful interventions, which included workshops for school staff, early years intervention programmes, universal interventions and specialist support for staff. The most effective strategy was thought to be the development of an ethos of mutual respect where all individuals were valued and supported.

During discussion the following issues were considered:

• it was important to understand the issues behind the data and pursue good practice;
• effective leadership in schools set an appropriate school ethos which was a key predictor for both educational achievement and positive behaviour;
• reference was made to the inspirational work being undertaken in schools to tackle challenging behaviour and promoting positive behaviour, and this report highlighted the improvements that had been achieved, with serious violent incidents remaining rare. Tribute was paid to school staff, parents and communities which contributed to the ongoing culture of respect in the Highlands. Although seen as negative, in certain circumstances, exclusion could still be used as a short term policy to manage extreme behaviour;
• attention was drawn to a possible typographical error in reported percentage of pupils excluded from primary and from secondary schools in Highland, these both being reported as 0.22% to 9.47%;
• the statistics were used to target support where it was most needed, and input from Highland Children’s Forum could be arranged if requested by Head Teachers;
• reference was made to Adverse Childhood Experiences and the film “Resilience”, which had been shown to around 500 Care and Learning staff in Highland.  A second round of viewings were planned and Members were urged to attend if possible;
• further information was sought on children who had not been excluded or placed on officially reduced timetables but whose attendance at school was poor. It was thought this might be due to failures of support measures. Reference was also made to home-schooled children who did not feature in the statistics in the report;
• all schools should be wheel-chair friendly to ensure they were prepared for any wheel-chair users, whether full or part-time; and
• the drop in violent and aggressive acts in Highland schools was encouraging, and the strategies that had been used to avoid such behaviour was outlined, including universal and enhanced transition packages for the move to secondary school and various early years interventions.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED that standards of behaviour in Highland schools were generally in line with or better than the norms reported nationally;
ii.    NOTED that the policy framework in Highland was in line with that required nationally and focused on creating a positive culture and ethos, underpinned by positive relationships across the school community;
iii.    NOTED the progress being made by the various interventions and approaches to supporting pupils with social, emotional and behavioural needs; and
iv.    AGREED to support the promotion of positive relationships with staff in schools and wider school communities as a key factor in developing a positive school ethos.

17.    School Term Dates
Cinn-latha Theirmean Sgoile

There had been circulated Report No CLH/33/18 dated 13 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, it was suggested that other educational establishments, ie the University of the Highlands and Islands, could be consulted when the review of future school term dates was carried out with a view to aligning holidays.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the current position in respect of school term dates; and
ii.    AGREED to a review of the process to consider the anticipated benefit of moving to a fixed school Easter holiday in the first 2 weeks of April each year.  

18.    Placement Services Change Programme
Prògram Atharrachaidh nan Seirbheisean Socrachaidh

There had been circulated Report No CLH/34/18 dated 14 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, Members made the following comments:-

• appreciation was expressed for the hard work undertaken in collating the report which outlined savings that could be made from in-house service provision for young people;
• a further report had been prepared and presented at the Redesign Board by the Head of Children's Services and the Corporate Audit and Performance Manager on the commissioned services for looked after children and young people of Highland and this would be circulated at a future meeting;
• affordable housing in new developments should be considered as units for homes for young people. In this regard, council housing could also be used to accommodate some of the looked after young people and this was being discussed with the Head of Housing and Building Maintenance to develop sustaining tenancies in their adult years;
• best outcomes for young people in Highland was paramount rather than focussing on savings;
• assurance was sought, and received, that the new team proposed would have the specialised skills to be able to deliver the outcomes detailed in the plan;
• it was important to ensure that there was a close working relationship with the NHS on developing the programme with adult health services;
• information was requested on how the commissioned services detailed in the     plan would address young people excluded from school, those with disabilities, and the attainment gap;
• assurance was sought, and received, that there would be a broad range of learning provision brought in place which would focus on learning outcomes and employment;
• despite Highland Council being above the Scottish average for the Educational Attainment for Looked After Children, it was recognised that the further these children slipped in to care the more problematic attainment became;
• whilst parts of the plan were RAG’d red these were areas that still needed to be developed and would be the main focus and work of the new posts that were being proposed;
• as the programme developed further reports would be submitted to future committees to monitor and scrutinise the outcomes achieved;
• this plan should be joined up with other plans and initiatives so that any contracts awarded actively and collectively supported the aims and objectives;
• organising education around looked after children should be brought back to mainstream planning as specialist residential provision might not always be in their best interest; and
• communication with Elected Members was key in gaining support where provision was proposed in their Ward.  

The Committee:-

i.    APPROVED the Programme Plan;
ii.    APPROVED a post to support the work related to the Attainment Challenge funding for Looked After Children;
iii.    NOTED that recruitment of a range of posts to support the Programme would commence over the next few months as set out in paragraph 4.2 of the report, subject to vacancy monitoring approval; 
iv.    AGREED to hold a seminar to support further discussion with Members regarding this Programme;
v.    AGREED that the possibility of providing placement accommodation in new housing developments be explored; and
vi.    AGREED that progress reports be submitted to future Committees as the Programme developed.

19.    Kinship Care
Cùram Dàimheil

There had been circulated Report No CLH/35/18 dated 14 August 2018 by the Director of Care and Learning.

During discussion, the need for assessments to be carried out to ensure that kinship care was the best option for the young person, and for the carers to be formally assessed and supported, was stressed.

The Committee NOTED the report.

20.    Membership of Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee
Ballrachd Fho-Chomataidh Leasachaidh agus Sgrùdaidh nan Seirbheisean Inbheach

The Committee AGREED the revised membership of the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee as tabled.

21.    Minutes
Geàrr-chunntas

Declarations of Interest: Mr A Christie declared a non-financial interest in item 21viii as General Manager of Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey CAB, and a financial interest in items 21v and 21vii as a Non-Executive Director of NHS Highland but, having applied the test outlined in Paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, concluded that his interests did not preclude his involvement in the discussion.

The Committee:-

i.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership Strategy Group – 12 December 2017;
ii.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Community Justice Partnership – 7 March 2018;
iii.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership Strategy Group – 13 March 2018;
iv.    NOTED the Minutes of the Highland Child Protection Committee – 13 March 2018;
v.    APPROVED the Minutes of the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee – 7 June 2018;
vi.    NOTED the Minutes of the Local Negotiating Committee for Teachers – 21 June 2018;
vii.    APPROVED the Minutes of the Adult Services Development and Scrutiny Sub-Committee – 10 August 2018; and
viii.    APPROVED the Minutes of the Poverty and Inequalities Working Group – 14 August 2018.

The meeting concluded at 2.35 pm.