Agenda item

(1)       Members received a report on the activity, progress and future development of the cross-partying formal Members Advisory Group (MAG) chaired by Mrs S V Hohler.

(2)       Mrs Hohler introduced the report and highlighted the progress of the MAG.  The Committee were advised that PSHE would be given statutory status and form part of the curriculum in Key Stage 1-4.  This was likely to take affect in 2011.  The Review would be led by Sir Alistair McDonald on how best to make PSHE statutory.

(3)       In light of these developments Mrs Hohler sought Members’ agreement to the MAG continuing its role in supporting future developments in PSHE and the implementation of the Kent PSHE Strategy. 

(4)       Mrs Hohler agreed with Mr Tolputt’s suggestion that more use should be made of Youth Workers in schools.

(5)       In noting the three points from Members on PSHE linking with SACRE, including “love” when teaching sex education and having good self image and confidence in the future, Mr Foster advised that the LEA was working in all schools taking account of different faiths and values.  The McDonald report would provide important health and sex education directive.  He felt that PSHE needed to be looked at in context of the development of education in Kent, DSFF and OFSTED had reported that this was of a high quality.  Work was also being undertaken with school governors on their responsibilities regarding PSHE. 

(6)       Ms Kemsley raised two points:-

            (i)         that as Headteacher, she was not allowed to know about some of the data for her school (e.g. teenage pregnancy rates) but was charged with improving it; and

            (ii)        that her preferred option for PSHE delivery was to have more access to experts.

(7)       Mrs Hohler explained that the MAG had debated on the issue of teachers or experts, as some teachers found the subject awkward although they could be contacted in school at any time by pupils.  The MAG’s preferred option was to have one person per school. 

(8)       Mr Newman’s comments on the use of the word “challenge” being altered to “co-operation” was noted.

(9)       Mr Simmonds’ point regarding parents’ responsibility being included in the process was noted.

(10)     RESOLVED that:-

(a)       in light of the progress made and future developments that were expected, the Members Advisory Group continue to support PSHE through monitoring the progress of the Kent PSHE Strategy Action Plan by Lead Officers reporting three times a year;

(b)       the officers be commended for their on-going support; and

(c)        the report and Members’ comments and suggestions be noted.