Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 65
65
Rejected
Paragraph: 261
Define parameters of schools' responsibilities and ensure accessible wraparound support for pupils and parents.
Recommendation
We recommend the Department clearly defines the parameters of schools’ and teachers’ responsibilities. To support with issues that are not within the scope of schools’ responsibilities Wraparound support should be easily available and accessible. Schools and teachers should be able to easily signpost pupils or parents to other organisations better suited to address barriers to attendance, wider concerns or care, and improvements are needed in both awareness of and access to this type of support.
Government Response Summary
The government rejects the recommendation to clearly define school and teacher responsibilities, stating it would not be helpful due to complexity. It mentions a Child Poverty Taskforce and existing SEND reforms but does not address the need for easily available wraparound support and signposting.
Paragraph Reference:
261
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
We do not believe that producing a list of responsibilities for schools and teachers would be helpful, as looking after the development and wellbeing of large numbers of children is inevitably complex. Recognising that workload pressures extend beyond teaching, the Prime Minister announced a new Child Poverty Taskforce in July, co-chaired by the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department for Education. The Taskforce will publish its strategy later this year. Our reforms to special educational needs and disability will improve inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools, ensuring special schools cater to those with the most complex needs. We know reducing teacher workload will play a key role in recruiting and retaining excellent school staff and will support the government’s mission to break down barriers to opportunity so all young people can achieve and thrive. We continue to work proactively with the sector to understand the drivers behind workload and wellbeing issues and improve our policies and interventions.