Powys council must listen to Estyn

Release/Rhyddhau: 28/06/06

Contact/Cyswllt: Ceirion Rees:
029 2089 8342/ 07733280105/ ceirion.rees@wales.gov.uk 

If Powys County Council ignores the recommendations of Estyn the consequences for education in Powys could be catastrophic. That was the view today from Montgomeryshire’s AM, Mick Bates.

Commenting on the publication of a report by the schools inspection agency on schools in Powys, Mick said:

“The Estyn report suggests that around a quarter of schools in Powys are underperforming at key stages 1, 2 and 3.  Despite this Powys County Council are going ahead with a 2.5% budget cut.  That could cause the loss of up to 70 teaching jobs - a move which could severely damage standards.

“Overall schools in Powys are improving.  The council in place a clear strategy, an effective system for monitoring the work of schools and provide targeted support for those who need the most help.  This improvement could be undermined by a budget cut.

“Education is perhaps the most important responsibility of local government.  Preparing children and young people for adulthood is vital to the long term sustainability of our communities. 

“Powys Council needs to re-examine their priorities.  They can start by re-viewing their planned budget cut.”