Agenda item

The Committee considered a report of the Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Services which provided a full summary of educational outcomes in County Durham 2019 and related updates on the focus and provision of education services (for copy see file of minutes).

R Crane, Head of Education responded to a number of questions from young people.

In response to a question with regards to Careers Advice, the Head of Education confirmed that Careers Advice should be offered in KS3 in schools – it was important that dedicated advice and support was offered and usually an interview was offered to students.  This was an area which was required under Ofsted framework and inspectors ensured students were informed and schools held to account.

In response to a question from a student about where does students from County Durham fit in relation to taking A ‘levels and apprenticeships  The Head of Education confirmed that there was a mix of students in County Durham, some take a traditional A level route while others followed the apprenticeship route.  

With regards to stress and exams, one student said in addition to GCSE and A Level stress, there were year 8 children worried about end of year tests.  The Head of Education confirmed that it was essential that schools had the right support in place and were able to accommodate young people during exam periods and this applied to primary schools too.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.