Cavalry assembled to save Powys education

Powys County Council has made its first steps to transform its education delivery following an awful Estyn report last month.

The council was widely criticised by the watchdog, prompting Chief Executive, Emma Palmer, to appoint an internal Accelerated Improvement Board, following consultation with the council’s Leader and Deputy Leader.

“We are committed to delivering exceptional education services that support our schools so that they can give our young people the best foundation for their future,” said Cllr James Gibson-Watt, Leader of Powys County Council.

“The establishment of the Accelerated Improvement Board is a crucial step to achieving this. The board will ensure that we meet the recommendations outlined by Estyn while driving and accelerating improvements in our education services.

“I am confident that we will achieve the necessary improvements and provide the education and opportunities that the children and families of Powys deserve and expect.’

According to cjncil chiefs, the priorities for the new board include:

• Support the development of strong and purposeful leadership and performance management of education improvement including a whole council approach to excellent education in Powys
• Provide robust review and input into the direction of educational improvements
• Problem-solve potential barriers to educational improvement and ensure these are addressed.