On-line learning for sixth formers considered

Local sixth formers could be studying for their A-levels online in future under plans being considered by Powys County Council (PCC).

In a bid to provide the widest ranges of topics available under its education budget, PCC said post-16 provision will remain at all current centres. But under this model, all post-16 learners will have a ‘home base’ but will be able to access courses locally and across the county via face-to-face teaching and through the online delivery of lessons.

PCC said it needs to transform its post-16 schools’ provision, so that local learners can “thrive and meet the demands of the 21st Century”.

The overall programme is called the Strategy for Transforming Education in Powys 2020-2030 which wants all post-16 learners to have equal access to high-quality provision in both Welsh and English, including those with Additional Learning Needs (ALN).

The council is also proposing to introduce a new structure, including a strategic management board, which would ensure there is a strategic oversight of post-16 schools’ provision in Powys.

The proposed structure will ensure that post-16 learners are able to access a broad range of subjects, with a blended offer of academic and vocational provision.

Dr Caroline Turner, Chief Executive of Powys County Council, said: “We believe that all learners should flourish and grow into capable, healthy, confident and ethically informed citizens so that they are prepared to contribute fully as ambitious, enterprising and independent individuals to the demands of the 21st Century.

“Our ambition for post-16 schools’ provision is that it provides an inclusive and flexible academic and vocational provision for all learners, regardless of their language or ability, so that all learners can access a broad, balanced and appropriate curriculum offer through the medium of Welsh and English.

“We want our learners to be effectively supported to thrive through well-planned enrichment activities and through bespoke wellbeing, academic, vocational and career support and guidance.

“We also want to forge strong partnerships between other higher education partners and employers to ensure that all learners can be appropriately advised on their next steps.

“Innovative use of digital learning opportunities will support and supplement the offer available to ensure the quality and breadth of provision is sustained.

“The leadership and governance will ensure that all provision is of the highest standard and delivered by passionate specialist, and reflective practitioners with a proven track record of excellence, where all staff and learners are highly valued as part of the learning organisation.

“Outstanding academic, vocational, and extra-curricular outcomes of the highest level will ensure that all Powys learners will have access to their appropriate, meaningful and aspirational pathway.

“We want to transform post-16 schools’ provision in Powys so that it makes a real difference for our learners.  We believe the proposed structure will help the council achieve this.”

Cabinet will be considering the proposal on Tuesday, May 18, with the council’s Learning and Skills Scrutiny Committee considering the proposal next Wednesday.