Decision details

To respond to the recommendations of the Central London area based review of skills

Councillor Johnson Situ withdrew for the discussion and decision making on this matter.

RESOLVED:

1.  That  the recommendations of the Central London Area Based Review of Skills report (Appendix 2 of the report) be noted.

2.  That it be noted that the council does not support a merger of Lewisham and Southwark College with the Newcastle College Group, as in the council’s view the best interests of Southwark’s learners are served by a local solution involving a merger with another London provider.

3.  That it be noted that the council will expect the outcomes of college mergers proposed locally to deliver a secure and improved quality offer for Southwark learners especially those with additional needs and support.  This will include addressing basic skills provision in literacy and numeracy, working with schools and ensure quality pathways into higher level technical learning and employment, meeting local employer and stakeholder priorities and safeguarding local physical assets and real property. 

4.  That the proposals for implementation of the area review through sub-regional skills and employment boards and the proposal to devolve the 19+ Adult Education Budget (circa £400m per annum) to London with the associated funding streams and powers devolved to the GLA from 2019-2020, be noted.

5.  That the council use the opportunity of the devolution of the adult education budget to influence local and regional skills provision, in a way that best serves the needs of Southwark learners and local employers.

6.  That agreement be given to the development of a local skills strategy, working alongside further and higher education providers, the council’s Business Forum as well as schools to support the delivery of a high quality FE and skills offer in the borough.

7.  That cabinet receive a report back on progress in summer 2017.