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THE HIGHLAND COUNCIL
EDUCATION, CULTURE AND SPORT COMMITTEE
Minutes of Meeting of the Education, Culture and Sport Committee held in the Council
Chamber, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness on Thursday 2nd August, 2001 at 10.30 a.m.
PRESENT
Mr R Saxon
Mr J W Oag
Mr W Mowat
Mrs B Jardine
Mrs A L Magee
Mr D Allan
Mr A Anderson
Mr A Rhind
Mr R W Durham
Mrs C A Wilson
Mrs M E Paterson
Mr A M M Beaton
Mr A M Millar
Mrs I Campbell
Mr P Corbett
Ms E MacDonald
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Mr R Balfour
Mrs M C Davidson
Mr W J Smith
Mr J W A Thomson
Mrs M A MacLennan
Mr A J Dick
Mr J Gray
Mrs L MacDonald
Mrs S Slimon
Mr B M S Dunlop
Mr G M Bruce
Dr M E M Foxley
Mr N M Clark
Mr G MacFarlane
Rev A Glass
Rev M Mackinnon |
NON-MEMBERS ALSO PRESENT:
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Mr J S Rosie
Mr D C M Flear
Mr G M Smith
Mrs D J Steven
Mr F R M Keith
Mr W J Ross
Mr G Coutts
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Mr N A Donald
Mrs K G Matheson
Mr R Severn
Mr C King
Mr W MacLachlan
Mrs O J Macdonald |
Officials in attendance:
Mr B Robertson, Director of Education
Mr A Jones, Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
Mr J Stevenson, Head of Resources and Support Services, Education Service
Mr S Anderson, Head of Tourism and Support Services, Cultural and Leisure Services
Mr I Murray, Head of Community and Leisure, Cultural and Leisure Services
Mr D MacDonald, Head of Support for Learners, Education Service
Mr S Brownlee, Head of Libraries and Archives, Cultural and Leisure Services |
Mr B Hemming, Education Resource Co-ordinator, Education Service
Mr W F MacPherson, Community Education Manager, Education Service
Mr H Fraser, Area Education Manager, Ross & Cromarty
Mr M Mitchell, Principal Accountant, Finance Service, Nairn.
Mr M Fraser, Capital Accounting Officer, Finance Service
Mr M McRae, Head of Legal Services, Corporate Services
Mr J Allison, Principal Administrator, Corporate Services
Mrs M Moffatt, Committee Administrator, Corporate Services
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Mr A Anderson in the Chair
BUSINESS
An asterisk in the margin denotes a recommendation to the Council. All decisions with no
marking in the margin are delegated to the Committee
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PRELIMINARIES
Rev A Glass opened the meeting with prayer.
| 1. |
APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Apologies for absence were intimated on behalf of Mr F Waters, Mr A Paterson, Mrs J N Home
and Mr J N Matheson.
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2.
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SUCCESSES
The Committee NOTED the following and AGREED that congratulations be
conveyed to those concerned:-
- Fortrose Academy had come 2nd the Scottish Schools Ethos Network - Ethos
Network Award.
- The first 20 staff of Cultural and Leisure Services had successfully
completed and been awarded the European Computer Driving Licence. This was part of the New
Opportunities Fund funded programme for ICT training for library and archive staff. Mr S
Brownlee, Head of Libraries and Archives, was presented with his award.
- In the Anti-Bullying Network’s National Poster Competition, the entry
by Alice Fraser of Portree Primary had been placed third. Her poster had been displayed at
the Network’s conference in Glasgow in June.
- Kinlochleven Visitor Centre had been awarded the Scottish Tourist Board
three-star visitor attraction award in recognition of a very good standard of facilities
and services.
- Anna Cook of Kingussie High School had won the Hume-Brown Prize for History
for her essay on "How bloodthirsty were the Vikings in reality". Last year the
prize had been won by another pupil, Gillian Kennedy, with her essay on William Wallace.
- The Chairman had collected the Education Music Award for music in schools on
behalf of the Council at a ceremony in London.
- Fortrose Academy had retained the European Business Game title in Italy with
their business proposal aimed at relieving stress. De-stress Limited used information
technology to help overcome symptoms of stress in the workplace. The Council would be
hosting the event in 2002.
- The Library Service had won a New Opportunities Fund award of £900k for the
Am Baile (Gaelic Village) project, a significant award, details of which were given in a
concurrent report on the agenda.
- Portree Primary had won the Highlands & Islands "Be An
Inventor" Competition, and had also won the Scottish Finals at the new Science Centre
in Glasgow with their invention of Plastephelopes, plastic/reusable envelopes for
adolescents.
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3.
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AUDIT OF SHINTY ACTIVITY
There was circulated Report No ECS36/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
on the results of an audit of shinty activities in the Highland area. The report detailed
support provided for shinty in the Highlands by Services of the Council and through the
Gael Force Ten programme.
Mr D Grant, President of the Camanachd Association, was present at the meeting to update
members on its work in promoting shinty. It was pointed out that the Camanachd
Association, as part of a Sportscotland review of funding of governing bodies, had agreed
to an independent development audit of its activities. The Genesis Strategic Management
Consultants had been appointed to assist in this process and had sought comments from
local authorities where shinty was played, on four main areas, details of which were
given.
Mr Grant, Mr G Reid, Sports Development Officer, and Mr R Ross, Highland Sports
Development Officer, gave a presentation on the Camanachd Association, Mr Grant referring
to the background to the Association and the structures and programmes in place, Mr Reid
expanding on the structures for youth development and Mr Ross on club development in the
Highlands.
In discussion, points raised included the following:-
- Mr Grant responded to criticisms that the Camanachd Association lacked
flexibility and failed to communicate or consult with clubs indicating that any problems
could be referred to him.
- The small amount of funding allocated by Sportscotland to the Camanachd
Association as compared with other sports although shinty could be regarded as a national
game.
- Relating to the development of shinty in Nairn, where there was currently no
activity, Mr Grant undertook to take some action within the next six months, probably
through the creation of a link with Elgin.
- The Camanachd Association and Highland Council should consider ways in which
they could assist each other. In this connection Mr Grant indicated that he would like to
work with the Schools Sports Co-ordinators in developing shinty in secondary schools.
- On the suggestion that there was a need to draw up an action plan in order
to make progress, it was pointed out that the Camanachd Association had in place a 4 year
Development Plan which covered many of the issues to be addressed and which would be
reviewed in light of the findings of the independent audit.
- The possible promotion of shinty as part of the European City of
Culture Bid should be pursued.
- Reference was made to the Council’s likely response to the Consultants
relating to which it was suggested that for the game to progress an increase of funding
was necessary, and it was hoped this would be one of the outcomes of the audit.
- Mr Grant, on behalf of the Camanachd Association, commented on points raised
in relation to the Consultants' audit, in particular criticisms about the administrative
structure, the competition structure, the Association's development plan, marketing and
publicity and possible conflicts of interest.
The Committee AGREED that:
(i) a response be submitted to the Genesis Strategic Management Consultants,
following consultation with the Vice-Chairman, bearing in mind the points raised at the
meeting ; and
(ii) following the publication of the Sportscotland Review of the Camanachd
Association, a Working Group be formed to look at ways in which Highland Council could
work with the Camanachd Association and Sportscotland in areas such as publicity, working
with schools and club development.
The position was otherwise NOTED.
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| 4. |
RECESS POWERS
The Committee NOTED that the Recess Powers granted by the Council at its meeting on
28 June, 2001 had not been exercised in relation to the business of the Education, Culture
and Sport Committee, except in relation to the works required at Holm and Mulbuie Primary
Schools referred to in Item 9 below.
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RESOURCES
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| 5. |
REVENUE BUDGET
The Committee considered reports on Revenue Expenditure, copies of which had been
circulated, as follows:-
a) Education Revenue Budget 2001 to 2004 – Financial Outlook
There was circulated Report No ECS37/01 by the Director of Education on the Education
Revenue Budget in the current and subsequent financial years, together with monitoring
statement by the Directors of Finance and Education for the period 1st April to 30th June,
2001. The Director referred to the need to adhere to budget targets and highlighted
current budget pressures. In addition, he pointed out that the McCrone Report
recommendations could not be fully implemented on the basis of the funding currently
provided by the Scottish Executive. He also referred to the position with regard to
primary school clerical support staff and, pending a wider review of support in schools as
part of the implementation of the McCrone Report, recommended a temporary increase in
hours, the costs of which would, however, add to the budget pressures already identified.
The Director put forward savings proposals for the current financial year. He pointed out
that these measures would not achieve the full savings target required and a further
report would be submitted once the 2001/02 school roll and staffing returns had been
analysed.
With regard to future years, certain budget pressures remained and, if political
representations seeking funding to implement fully the McCrone Report recommendations were
not successful, Members would have to decide whether any additional funding could be
identified for this purpose. In the interim, a multi-discipline task group would be
established within the Service to produce proposals on how the implementation of the
Service Plan could be delivered within the cash targets established by the Council over
the next two years. Service reviews would also take place in the current year which would
result in operational efficiencies in administrative support functions, supporting the
curriculum and special educational needs.
In discussion, points raised included the following:-
- Members welcomed the approach being taken to manage the situation and
suggested that the new method of financial reporting should assist .
- It was suggested that the McCrone settlement was another example of the
Council being disadvantaged as a rural authority with a large number of small secondary
schools.
- There was a perception at school and community level that the McCrone
recommendations had been fully funded and the Council must make sure that the true
situation was made known. It was suggested that a briefing document be prepared for
parents and school boards. The Chairman also confirmed that the matter would be discussed
at the next series of Area Education Forums.
- Reference was made to other budget pressures such as continuing problems
with the school security programme.
- It was suggested by one Member that the current situation was largely a
political consequence of the Council’s decision not to rationalise schools, which
left the authority with many small, expensive schools. This was a decision fully supported
by the community but they should be aware of consequences.
- Members were concerned at the possibility of not being able to fully
implement the McCrone recommendations and referred to the likely reaction of teaching
staff.
- It was confirmed that the Excellence Fund was in its final year and the
outcome of a review of the scheme should be available in the Autumn. It was suggested that
more flexibility would be helpful and reference was made to the anticipated move to local
outcome agreements.
- There was a need for a national review of spending on school transport and
for consideration also to be given to the impact of the current policy of inclusion on
special educational needs spending.
The Committee AGREED to:
(i) note the budget pressures which the Education Service would have to meet
in the current and subsequent two financial years;
(ii) approve the temporary revision to primary school clerical hours with
effect from 1 September, 2001;
(iii) approve the savings proposals outlined in section 4 of the report;
(iv) note that further reports would be presented to the Committee during the
current financial year outlining fundamental long-term efficiencies which would enable the
Education Service to operate within the cash targets set by the Council; and
(v) note that a report on school security would be submitted to the next
meeting.
b) Cultural and Leisure Services – Revenue Monitoring, June 2001
Report No ECS38/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services, was circulated
together with a statement by the Directors of Finance and Cultural and Leisure Services on
Revenue Expenditure for the period 1 April to 30 June, 2001. The current estimate of the
potential year-end out-turn was an overspend of £29,000 or 0.3%. The Director commented
on possible year end variances and indicated that budgets were being closely monitored.
The Leisure Centre membership system, the Highlife card, had been introduced which it was
hoped would have a positive effect on income.
The position was NOTED.
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| 6. |
CULTURAL AND LEISURE SERVICES – GRANT AID SYSTEM
There was circulated Report No ECS39/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
which referred to changes made in the administration and operation of the Cultural and
Leisure Services grant aid budget since the beginning of the financial year and proposed a
decision-making process which took these new arrangements into account. The report
referred to decisions already taken with regard to the element of the grant-aid budget
devolved to Areas. The Education, Culture and Sport Portfolio Holders Group would review
the system further including devolution of budgets, the formula used in any allocation to
Areas and the relationship with the overall Cultural and Leisure Services Budget. Meantime
there was an immediate need to agree a decision making process to deal with those
applications which were not delegated to Areas. The Director put forward proposals
relative to grants paid to major clients i.e. organisations which received grants in
excess of £10,000 per annum which were generally subject to service agreements, museums
and heritage grants, Pan-Highland grants and Gaelic grants.
After discussion, the Committee NOTED the current situation and AGREED:
(i) the decision making procedures for grants outlined in the report; and
(ii) that, once the equalisation process had been completed, the budget for
Museums and Heritage grants be devolved to Area Committees.
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| 7. |
TENDER FOR CURRICULUM COMPUTER EQUIPMENT
There was circulated Report No ECS40/01 by the Director of Education on the tendering and
evaluation process for procurement of school computer equipment. The Council's Education
Service required to set up a procurement contract in respect of PCs and related hardware
to complete the installation of the National Grid for Learning (NGfL) in primary and
secondary schools. The contract would run for two years from 1st April, 2001 to 31st
March, 2003 with an option for a further year. Details were given of the equipment
required based on Government equipment targets. At present funding levels, primary school
targets would be met by March, 2003 and secondary schools by March 2002. Secondary schools
would also have ongoing replacement requirements. Details were given of the formal
tendering procedure which had been followed, of interest expressed, the tender evaluation
and the short leet evaluation.
The Committee APPROVED the recommendations made following the evaluation of tenders
that :
(i) the contract for the supply of desktops, laptops, servers and peripheral
equipment be awarded to Specialist Computer Centre (SCC) on the basis of competitive
pricing, technically acceptable equipment and their superior level of service delivery to
the education field; and
(ii) the leasing arrangements for primary school equipment be handled by SCC
via Compaq Finance.
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| 8. |
CAPITAL MONITORING
The Committee dealt with reports submitted on Capital Expenditure as follows :-
a) Education Capital Monitoring to 30 June 2001
Report No ECS41/01 by the Director of Education was circulated together with a statement
by the Directors of Finance and Education outlining the position on the Education Service
Capital Programme for the period 1st April – 30th June, 2001. The Director of
Education commented on the current status of the approved capital programme, including
gross expenditure, income and the estimated outturn.
During discussion, members sought clarification of the Council's decision to review its
overall Capital Programme. The Vice-Convener explained the background to and purpose of
the review which would look at spending from the year 2002 onwards. She confirmed that the
review was unlikely to significantly upset existing capital programmes and, whatever the
outcome, Services would continue to have their own capital programme. There were, however,
significant developments which the Council had to consider and a need to review existing
procedures and criteria. There was no moratorium on spending during the current financial
year.
After further discussion, the Chairman confirmed that a revised five-year Capital
Programme and proposals for the second Education Public Private Partnership Project would
be submitted to the next meeting of the Committee.
The Committee otherwise NOTED the position.
b) Cultural and Leisure Services Capital Expenditure 2001/02
Report No ECS42/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services, was circulated
together with a statement by the Directors of Finance and Cultural and Leisure Services
outlining the position on the Cultural and Leisure Services Capital Programme for the
period 1st April – 30th June, 2001. The Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
commented on the monitoring position and expected out-turn and in particular on the
current position with regard to the Kingussie Leisure Centre. He also made reference to
the new project fund of £24,000 included in the Capital Programme and an allowance for
project development of £7,000 and made recommendations with regard to the allocation of
these funds.
The Committee NOTED the current position and AGREED that the allocation of
the project development funds be delegated to Officers, with proposals for the allocation
of new project funds being brought to Committee following consultation with the Portfolio
Holders Group.
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| 9. |
EDUCATION CAPITAL PROJECTS 2001/02
There was circulated Report No ECS43/01 by the Director of Education seeking members'
approval to proceed with projects at Avoch Primary School, Culloden Academy and Ullapool
Primary School, which required to be undertaken in order to meet the requirements of
school roll changes. As in the current year consideration was being given to an outline
business case for a second round of Public Private Partnerships and the Council was
carrying out a "root and branch" review of its overall Capital Programme, it
would not be possible to produce a Five Year Capital Programme meantime. However there was
a need to proceed with these projects in order to complete works within restricted
programme timescales. Reference was also made to decisions taken by the Director in
consultation with the Chairman, using recess powers, that the demountable unit at Mulbuie
Primary School be replaced and work be carried out to the electrical systems at Holm
Primary School on health and safety grounds. It was considered that the works at Mulbuie
could be contained within the current Capital Programme. However, a funding source would
have to be identified for the works at Holm Primary School.
The Committee:-
(i) NOTED the position as outlined in the report, including the
decision to progress works at Mulbuie and Holm Primary Schools; and
(ii) APPROVED the capital projects identified as necessary on school
roll grounds.
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| 10. |
SURPLUS PROPERTIES
The Committee AGREED that the following schools which would be vacated as a result
of the first Public Private Partnership project, and their associated grounds, be declared
surplus to educational requirements with effect from transfer to the new schools:-
Raigbeg Primary School
Moy Primary School
Kilmonivaig Primary School
Glen Urquhart High School (existing site - excluding Janitor’s house)
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POLICY
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| 11. |
PEOPLE’S NETWORK PROGRAMME PROGRESS REPORT
There was circulated Report No ECS44/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
indicating that the Service had secured significant funding from the New Opportunities
Fund (NOF) for the delivery of the Government’s People’s Network Programme for
Public Library Services. The report also proposed appropriate management solutions to
secure the successful completion of the three specific People’s Network projects by
the NOF deadline of 31 March 2003. The Director commented on progress on the approved
funding programme for the training for all libraries and archive staff in information and
communications technology (ICT), on the approved implementation plan for the allocated
£714,470 for Highland libraries to provide public access PCs in all built libraries, and
on the award to the Highland Council led consortium of partners of £900,000 for the Am
Baile, Gaelic Village, content digitisation project.
He gave details of steps taken to provide the infrastructure in relation to the
implementation plan and indicated that, following consultation with the Personnel Manager,
it was proposed that a post of People’s Network ICT Infrastructure Manager be
established on an 18 month fixed term contract to oversee the Library Service client
responsibilities, with funding to be contained within the project management element of
the NOF Funding.
With regard to the Am Baile, Gaelic Village, project it was proposed that a Project Board
be set up and recommended that Councillor Allan Beaton be invited to chair the Project
Board. Details of the composition of the Project Board were given. In consultation with
the Personnel Manager, proposals were also put forward for staffing to be appointed on 18
month fixed term contracts to lead on and deliver the Am Baile project on time and in
budget.
The Committee APPROVED:
(i) the progress made to date in securing the external funding and beginning
the task of delivering the People’s Network in Highland libraries;
(ii) the action proposed to establish a People’s Network Project Team on
18 month fixed term contracts;
(iii) the setting up of a Project Board to oversee and monitor the progress of
the Am Baile, Gaelic Village, project under the chairmanship of Councillor Allan Beaton.
It was also AGREED that the Committee’s thanks be conveyed to the staff
involved in these successful bids.
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HIGHLAND DRUG AND ALCOHOL STRATEGY
There was circulated Report No ECS45/01 by the Director of Education on the Education
Advisory Service’s review of its contribution to "Tackling Drug and Alcohol
Misuse: The Highland Way". The Director gave details of current initiatives in
schools in partnership with other bodies such as the Northern Constabulary and Highland
Health Board, in-service training provided, steps being taken to identify and provide
teaching materials for schools and a seminar held with the aim of contributing towards
improving the effectiveness of the local Drug and Alcohol Forums. The Director also
referred to action identified within the Education Service Plan.
A leaflet produced by the Highland Youth Voice, directed at young people and giving
guidance on the possible future problems created by taking drugs, was tabled. The Director
also gave further details of the views expressed by the Youth Voice on current drug and
alcohol education and steps which had subsequently been taken in schools and in
partnership with other agencies.
In discussion, it was stressed that it was essential that young people be involved, that
they be given hard practical advice and made aware of the risks arising from drug and
alcohol abuse. There was also a need to raise the awareness of parents so that they could
link in with initiatives in schools. Other issues to be addressed included the effect on
families of drugs and alcohol abuse and support for children who cared for parents who
abused.
The Committee AGREED:-
(i) to commend the staff in Highland schools for their work in educating young
people about drug and alcohol misuse and for their contributions to local drug and alcohol
forums;
(ii) to endorse the actions being taken to involve young people more closely
in drug and alcohol education;
(iii) to endorse the action being taken to evaluate the impact on young people
of drugs and alcohol education in schools; and
(iv) that an annual report on progress of drugs and alcohol education
initiatives in Highland schools be submitted to the Committee.
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EUROPEAN FORUM FOR CULTURE AND PROXIMITY
There was circulated Report No ECS46/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
which discussed the benefits of the Council becoming a member of the European Forum for
Culture and Proximity. The Director referred to a forum attended by the Chairman in
Bilbao, Spain, in May, 2001 and to meetings held over the past 5 years, encouraged by the
Council of Europe, of authorities of comparable size and responsibilities throughout
Europe to share good practice. Arising from these the need for a specific focus on the
promotion of cultural activity had been agreed and the Forum for Culture and Proximity had
been established. Details were given of the purposes of the Forum and of the funding
arrangements. The seminar had agreed on an intermediate Management Committee with UK
representation through a delegate from Manchester. The Forum itself would meet once per
year rotating through the member authorities. The agreement would last until 31st
December, 2003. The Director also referred to other contacts made through the Forum which
could be of benefit to the Council.
There was some discussion of the financial implications of joining the Forum and of the
advantages of membership. Reference was also made to the work done by the Council’s
European Unit on the accessing of funds.
The Committee AGREED to become a member of the European Forum for Culture and
Proximity and to the annual commitment of 1,000 euros (£641 at the current exchange rate)
towards the operation of the Committee.
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| 14. |
PROPOSED REZONING OF THE DELINEATED AREAS OF ROSEBANK
AND MILLBANK PRIMARY SCHOOLS
There was circulated Report No ECS47/01 by the Director of Education proposing a rezoning
of the delineated areas of Rosebank and Millbank Primary Schools, Nairn in light of
proposed housing developments, projected school rolls and school capacities.
The Committee AGREED that a statutory consultation be carried out under the
appropriate legislation to rezone the delineated areas of Rosebank and Millbank Primary
Schools.
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| 15. |
EDUCATION PROVISION IN THE GLENBORRODALE AREA
There was circulated Report No ECS48/01 by the Director of Education advising of the
current situation at Glenborrodale Primary School where as a result of placing requests
made for Acharacle Primary School there would be no pupils in the coming session.
The local Member, Dr M E M Foxley explained the background to the current situation at
Glenborrodale, referring in particular to the problem of affordable local housing which
was an issue which should be addressed by the Council.
Reservations about the cost of "mothballing" the building were expressed in
light of the current pressures on the Council’s revenue and capital budgets. It was
confirmed, however, that the cost would be minimal and the building would be available for
other uses meantime. The costs would be calculated and conveyed to the member concerned.
In light of the situation as detailed, the Committee AGREED that:-
(i) for the time being, primary and nursery provision for the area served by
Glenborrodale Primary School be made at Acharacle Primary School;
(ii) educational provision at Glenborrodale Primary School be suspended
meantime and the school be "mothballed" with resources left in place until such
time as the number of children in the area warranted the reopening of the school, the
situation to be reviewed in 2 years' time; and
(iii) the position as outlined in the report with regard to school staffing be
noted.
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DEVELOPMENTS SINCE THE CLOSURE OF RADDERY SCHOOL
There was circulated Joint Report No ECS49/01 by the Directors of Education and Social
Work referring to the closure of Raddery School on 29th June, 2001 and steps which had
been taken since then to provide for the education and care of the former pupils.
Discussions were taking place with the Board of Raddery School to ascertain whether a new
Highland Council facility could be established within some of the vacant accommodation on
the former Raddery School site. This would provide for up to 16 pupils. The projected
budget for the new educational facility of £280,000 could be met through the use of
budgets previously allocated to pupils at Raddery School within the Education and Social
Work Services’ budgets. The proposed one year of operation of the new facility would
afford time to plan for 52 week care and education within Highland which continued to be
an essential element in the strategy to ensure that reduced numbers of children were
placed outwith the authority.
The Director of Education indicated that a report on future provision would be submitted
to Committee early in the New Year.
The Committee NOTED and APPROVED the actions taken to establish a temporary
education facility and to maintain consistent care and education for the former pupils of
Raddery School.
The Committee adjourned for lunch at 1.05 p.m. and resumed at 2.00 p.m.
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| 17. |
REVIEW OF THE COUNCIL’S COMMUNITY RADIO STRATEGY
Mr A Anderson, Mr R Saxon and Mr A M Millar declared a non-pecuniary interest in this
item due to their involvement in local community radio stations.
There was circulated Report No ECS50/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
outlining progress to date in delivering the objectives of the Community Radio Strategy.
The Director referred to the background to and objectives of the strategy and gave details
of specific developments in relation to improving access, training and development,
funding and partnership arrangements. It was suggested that a considerable amount had been
achieved over the past two years in supporting and encouraging the promotion of the arts
and the culture and heritage of the Highlands, including Gaelic language and culture,
through the Community Radio Network. The Council had also continued to work in partnership
with the Community Radio Sector to support the use of the Community Radio as an important
and cost-effective method of communicating with the public and had been pro-active in
encouraging the networking and exchange of information between agencies. A detailed work
plan for the next twelve months was given.
In discussion, members welcomed the report but suggested there were a number of issues to
be addressed in the future. In particular it was requested that an independent audit be
undertaken of training, that the question of whether the Highlands and Islands Federation
was able to take on responsibility for the training programme should be raised at the next
conference, and the pilot access projects should be discussed. It was also suggested that
the Highlands and Islands Community Media Federation was unnecessary and information was
sought on the timescale for the proposed review of the role of the working group set up by
the Gaelic Broadcasting Committee. It was suggested that community radio stations wanted
more input to the agenda for the annual conference and that the format of the conference
might be altered to include workshops etc. The Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
commented on the points raised and indicated that an independent audit would cover most of
these points.
The Committee AGREED that consultants be appointed to carry out an independent
audit with report back in six to twelve months' time.
The Committee otherwise NOTED the current position and APPROVED the work
plan for the next 12 months.
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| `18. |
SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS
There was circulated Report No ECS51/01 by the Director of Corporate Services recommending
amendments to the School Boards Scheme of Arrangements for Elections/Ballots in line with
current legislation and in anticipation of the provision of new computer software. A copy
of the amended scheme was attached.
The purpose of the scheme was to determine the day to day mechanics of school board
elections e.g. eligibility to vote, electoral rolls, nomination forms etc. It was proposed
to make use of dedicated school board election software already existing within the
Phoenix system to streamline the election administration process. Initially this would
involve all schools in Lochaber and secondary schools in Ross and Cromarty. One major
advantage of the new system would be to avoid duplication in the maintenance of the
electoral roll for parents.
The Committee APPROVED the revised Scheme of Arrangements for Elections/Ballots to
facilitate the formal introduction of the Phoenix School Boards Software.
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| 19. |
SCHOOL SPORTS CO-ORDINATORS – ANNUAL REPORT
There was circulated Report No ECS52/01 by the Director of Education which outlined
progress in the second full year of the School Sports Co-Ordinators programme. The
Director suggested that the excellent progress made in the last year had been built on and
extended in Year 2. School Sports Co-ordinators and Sports Development Officers would
continue to develop the good work already being done in the primary schools with the
phased introduction of the TOP Programme. While it was pleasing to see the co-operative
working with Cultural and Leisure Services staff it was vital that opportunities for
pupils were extended further into the community through increased co-operation with clubs
and national bodies. This would be addressed by School Sports Co-ordinators and Sports
Development Officers.
In discussion, the Director commented on the outcome of the latest audit and points raised
included a request for a report on what happened in schools between 3.00 p.m. and 6.00
p.m. and whether it was possible to identify a difference where School Sports
Co-ordinators had been specifically appointed to the posts. The Director suggested that
this would come out in the proposed evaluation.
The Committee NOTED the excellent progress made in the second full year of the
School Sports Co-Ordinators programme and AGREED that:-
(i) the Director of Education commission an external evaluation of the scheme;
(ii) the Director report on progress at the end of year 3 in the Autumn of
2002; and
(iii) copy of the full report be circulated to all members.
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| 20. |
INVERNESS COMMUNITY EDUCATION REVIEW
There was circulated Report No ECS53/01 by the Director of Education proposing a review of
Community Education provision in Inverness. The Director set out the current provision of
staffing, community education centres and community schools in the Inverness Area and the
remit of Community Education Staff. He referred to the need to produce a development plan
for Community Learning which clearly outlined how many local Community Learning Networks
needed to be established. There was a Community Education Worker linked to each secondary
school but no clear operational policy as to the role of Community Education within
schools. There was also a need for greater collaboration and joint working between
Education and Cultural and Leisure Services.
It was therefore deemed appropriate to review Community Education provision in Inverness
and proposals were put forward for the establishment of a Review Group which would report
to the City of Inverness and Area Committee in November/December following full
consultation with all interested parties. Any recommendations from the Review which had
policy implications or which were thought to be transferable elsewhere would be reported
to the Committee.
The Director of Education reported that the city of Inverness and Area Education Committee
at a meeting earlier that week had appointed Mrs M C Davidson and Mr A J Dick to represent
them on the proposed Review Group.
The Committee AGREED that a review be carried out as outlined in the report.
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| 21. |
VOLUNTEER TUTORS - ADULT BASIC EDUCATION
There was circulated Report No ECS54/01 by the Director of Education drawing Members’
attention to the contribution made by Adult Basic Education volunteer tutors to the
enhancement of literacy skills in the Highland population and proposing that recognition
be made to those tutors during 2001 which had been designated by the United Nations
General Assembly as International Year of Volunteers. The Director gave details of the
involvement of volunteers in the direct delivery of tuition of Adult Basic Education, of
the hours of voluntary work and the costs of the service, together with costs which would
be incurred if tutors were paid on a full-time equivalent salary. As the Adult Basic
Education Service relied on the commitment and goodwill of its volunteer tutors to deliver
the service to its students and there was at present no form of recognition given to
tutors it was recommended that during the UN International Year of Volunteers members
recognise the significant contribution made by volunteer tutors by hosting a buffet
evening at Area level.
The Committee so AGREED.
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CONSULTATIVE ISSUES
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| 22. |
IMPROVING OUR SCHOOLS: ASSESSING OUR CHILDREN’S
EDUCATIONAL NEEDS: THE WAY FORWARD
There was circulated Report No ECS55/01 by the Director of Education which outlined a
draft Highland Council response to a consultation document issued by the Scottish
Executive, "Improving Our Schools: Assessing Our Children’s Educational Needs:
The Way Forward". The document followed a review commissioned by the Scottish
Executive of how the current assessment and recording (Record of Needs) process could be
improved or updated. It was regarded as a first stage in a formal consultation process.
Part 1 of the document invited comment on the principles underlying the current
legislative framework to the assessment and recording system. Part 2 invited respondents
to comment in detail on key features of any future system. The fundamental issue in
relation to assessment and recording was whether the current system should be replaced or
merely substantially revised. The Director gave details of arguments on both sides. The
draft response had been endorsed by the Joint Committee on Children and Young People on
19th June, 2001. It was felt to reflect the broad sweep of opinions being expressed by
parents and carers at recent consultation meetings.
The Director of Education commented on the background to the consultation document and the
proposed response on behalf of the Council. In discussion, it was suggested that changes
to the legislation could raise expectations and there was a need to involve young people
and parents in the whole decision making process so that they were aware of the overall
picture, including Council policies and the conflicting demands on the funding available.
There was some concern that the proposals could affect existing provision. The Director
acknowledged that the Council would face difficult choices but also referred to the
current Best Value review of special educational needs provision which it was hoped would
bring about efficiencies in provision.
The Committee AGREED:
(i) to endorse the draft response included as an Appendix to the report for
submission to the Scottish Executive; and
(ii) that the Director report on the outcome of the consultation by the
Scottish Executive on the recommendations of the Advisory Committee.
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| 23. |
NATIONAL LOTTERY CONSULTATION DOCUMENTS
There was circulated Report No ECS56/01 by the Director of Cultural and Leisure Services
referring to consultation documents issued by two of the National Lottery distributing
bodies, the New Opportunities Fund (NOF) and the National Lottery Heritage Fund (HLF). The
report provided a brief summary of the issues for consultation and draft Council
responses. In relation to the New Opportunities Fund the Director referred to the previous
consultation to which the Council had responded on new funding programmes which NOF
proposed to introduce. Many of the points made had been taken on board. Details of the
five new programmes and the funding allocated to them were given. The current consultation
was on the delivery of the programmes and the Director put forward a number of points
which should be emphasised in the Council response, relating mainly to factors of concern
in a rural area and the need to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy.
The current strategic plan governing the work of the Heritage Lottery Fund would run until
April, 2002. The consultation document now issued, "The Horizons of Heritage",
sought more general guidance on future strategic priorities and invited comments to help
set the priorities for the next five years. The first strategic plan had identified four
strategic priorities for funding, namely, Conservation, National Heritage, Local Heritage
and Education and Access. The Director gave details of the funding currently made
available and the main elements of a proposed response to the 26 questions asked on
individual parts of the plan.
Following discussion, during which it was suggested that the Heritage Lottery Fund should
make more effort to improve access, particularly for small local groups, the Committee APPROVED:
(i) a proposed response to the New Opportunities Fund consultation document as
detailed in the report, to be submitted following consultation with the Chairman; and
(ii) the proposed response to the Heritage Lottery Fund consultation document
as outlined in Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the report.
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MINUTES
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| 24. |
MINUTES OF MEETINGS
The Committee NOTED the Minutes of the following Meetings, copies of which had been
circulated:-
(i) Minutes of Meeting of Education Service Public Private Partnership
Sub-Committee held on 9th May, 2001.
Arising from these Minutes a report was given on progress with the Memorandum of
Understanding with Gleesons.
(ii) Minutes of Meeting of the Education Transport Appeals Committee held on
17th May, 2001.
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| 25. |
EXCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC
The Committee RESOLVED that under Section 50A(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act
1973, the public be excluded from the meeting for discussion of the following items on the
grounds that they involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Part
1 of Schedule 7A of the Act and in terms of the paragraph shown.
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| 26. |
CALEDONIA COMMUNITY LEISURE LIMITED
Paragraph 6
There was circulated to members only Report No ECS57/01 by the Director of Cultural
and Leisure Services which informed members of the budget position of Caledonia Community
Leisure Limited as at 31st March, 2001 and in the current and future years. Details were
given of measures proposed to address the situation.
In discussion, some concern was expressed about the Council’s current budget position
and the circumstances leading to the situation outlined in the report. The reliability of
the figures put forward was questioned and it was suggested that the Council should defer
a decision for a more detailed report on the finances and management of the Company, to
enforce the current Management Agreement and to give consideration to membership of the
Board of Management. Other members sought further information on the financial position,
including a breakdown of costs, and the cost benefits or otherwise to the Council of the
current arrangement. Reference was made to alternatives open to the Council and the
implications of not meeting the current shortfall.
The Committee AGREED to:
(i) recommend to the Budget Working Group that the Caledonia Community
Leisure Limited cumulative deficit to 31st March, 2001 of £93,403 be met;
(ii) note that the CCLL Board was projecting a need for up to £200,000 of
additional support in 2001/02 and £45,000 per annum thereafter;
(iii) defer consideration of any shortfall in 2001/02 until CCLL completed the
implementation of improved management and financial controls to a level satisfactory to
both the Council and the Company; and
(iv) note that a further report would be brought to the Committee later in the
year once the financial monitoring position became clearer.
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| 27. |
DUNCRAIG CASTLE
Paragraphs 6 and 9
There was circulated to members only Report No ECS58/01 by the Director of Education
setting out the background to negotiations with Scotland’s Top Hostels in regard to a
lease of Duncraig Castle and putting forward recommendations with regard to the future of
the property. The Director referred to decisions taken by the Council in the past
following the deliberations of the Duncraig Castle Working Group and to subsequent
meetings of the Working Group and correspondence between the Council and Scotland’s
Top Hostels. In light of the failure to agree the terms of a lease for Duncraig Castle
with Scotland’s Top Hostels, the Working Group had recommended that negotiations with
Scotland’s Top Hostels be terminated and a report to that effect be submitted to this
meeting of the Committee. The Minutes of the Meeting of the Working Group held on 24 July,
2001, when this recommendation had been made, were appended to the report.
There was tabled a submission received from Scotland’s Top Hostels asking the
Committee to reject the recommendation of the Working Group.
After hearing the Director of Education and the local Member, the Committee APPROVED
the Minutes of the Meeting of the Working Group held on 24 July, 2001 and AGREED
that:
(i) negotiations with Scotland’s Top Hostels be terminated;
(ii) in line with the decision of the Education Committee of 13th January,
1999 Duncraig Castle and associated properties be placed on the market for sale and that
this sale be handled by a specialist firm; and
(iii) the castle be offered for sale with an option to purchase the contents
which were currently held in secure storage.
The meeting ended at 3.15 p.m. |
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