The report of the Interim Strategic Director of Children’s Services (Document “AI”) provides an overview of the work of the Local Cultural Education Partnership (LCEP), its governance, membership and ambitions in developing a cultural offer for our young people in the District.

Recommended -

(1)          That the Committee acknowledge the progress of the work of the Local Cultural Education Partnership (LCEP).

(2)          That the Committee comment on the work of the LCEP members and partners in delivering this work for the benefit of our children and young people.

(3)          That members of the Committee be requested to promote the work of the LCEP through their networks.

(4)          That members acknowledge the actions proposed in the action plan.

The report of the Interim Strategic Director of Children’s Services (Document “AI”) provided an overview of the work of the Local Cultural Education Partnership (LCEP), its governance, membership and ambitions in developing a cultural offer for our young people in the District.

The following comments and questions were made by members of the Committee and responses given:

·         A member was concerned that schools were facing funding cuts and were considering reducing their week to 4 1/2 days.  She asked whether schools would have to buy in LCEP services.  In response it was noted that the Partnership would offer the 25 x 25 framework for schools to use and that they would not have to buy in.  The emphasis would be identifying what was in the local area and what could be accessed.

·         Bradford Festival was not included in the Partnership.  In response it was noted that Bradford Festival was involved with LCEP the previous year and undertook a large consultation with young people as part of the Bradford Festival.

·         Issues of diversity could be addressed and communities brought together through arts , how had the LCEP engaged with communities? A lot of the organisations involved with LCEP had this as a focus.  The issue of contact with Faith groups would be taken back to the next meeting of the Steering Group.

·         When would schools be able to become involved with LCEP?  A pilot would be introduced in some schools in July 2019 then it would be launched in all schools in October 2019.

·         A member asked about funding required to deliver the LCEP.  It was noted that it did not fall with the Local Authority  to provide funding.  The bridging organisation was looking at sustainability of funding streams.

·         How were other authorities progressing that had started the process before Bradford?  Kirklees was ahead of Bradford in establishing a LCEP but the impact had not yet been evaluated.

·         It was stressed that there were implications for all Ward Councillors as they knew local groups and schools in their Ward and could contribute if they were involved.  Was this going to be reported to Committees?  The work of LCEP would be brought to Area Committees at the same time as the Education Covenant.

·         How had  the membership of the LCEP Partnership been arrived at?  Volunteers were requested from the original Steering Group which was too big.  Names were put forward based on skill set and those who could get things done.

·         How would the LCEP engage with people with leaning difficulties?  The age range of 25 was so that young people with additional needs would be included.

·         It was suggested that contact be made with Bradford Talking Media.

·         Did the membership of the Steering Group include representatives of disabled persons groups? It was agreed to take back to the Steering Group how the membership might be widened.  

Resolved -

(1)          That the progress of the work of the Local Cultural Education Partnership (LCEP) be acknowledged.

(2)          That members of the Committee be requested to promote the work of the LCEP through their networks.

(3)          That members acknowledge the actions proposed in the action plan.

ACTION: Interim Strategic Director of Children’s Services