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Independent recommendations to improve education outcomes will be taken forward
20/09/2023
Whilst local pupils achieve good academic outcomes compared to national averages, that’s not the case for disadvantaged children
Oxfordshire County Council is set to act on a series of recommendations in an independently commissioned report into the quality of education in the county.
The Education Commission was set up by the council in late 2022 to look at how the council, alongside all state-funded schools, education settings and partners, can improve outcomes and equality for all children in Oxfordshire. In order to understand what is working well and what needs to change they spoke to people across the education system in Oxfordshire, including young people and their families, educators, businesses and wider stakeholders.
The report found that overall pupils in the county tend to achieve good academic outcomes compared to national averages. However, certain demographic groups achieve poorer outcomes, with disadvantaged children ranking in the bottom quartile nationally in a number of areas.
Yesterday the council’s Cabinet agreed to accept 17 proposals to help improve things. An action plan will now be developed by the County Council and its partners.
Gail Tolley, Chair of the Oxfordshire Education Commission, said: “It has been a privilege for me to have the opportunity to lead the commission.
“In our report, we have made some strong recommendations for Oxfordshire to improve educational outcomes for children from certain demographic groups.
“I am pleased with the response to the commission’s recommendations, which the council have now endorsed, and I look forward to seeing the impact they will have on the children and young people of Oxfordshire.”
Councillor Liz Brighouse, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Youth Services, said: “We welcome the recommendations of the Oxfordshire Education Commission. Ninety-two per cent of Oxfordshire pupils attend schools that are rated good or outstanding by Ofsted. Nationally the figure is eighty-seven per cent.
“However, we know that there is still a gap in educational attainment for our most disadvantaged children and those with special educational needs and disabilities. That’s why we’re committed to acting upon these recommendations to tackle inequalities, and create a fairer education system, which ensures everyone can achieve a good outcome.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam