Kirsty Williams, Cabinet Secretary for Education
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
In September 2015 the Welsh Government established the Education Otherwise than at School (EOTAS) Task and Finish Group. The EOTAS Task and Finish Group, chaired by former Estyn Chief Inspector Ann Keane, was asked to develop a ‘Framework for Action’ – practical solutions to the problems faced by pupil referral units (PRUs) and wider EOTAS providers to drive improved outcomes for EOTAS learners.
I have now received the EOTAS Task and Finish Group’s final Framework for Action for my consideration. The EOTAS and PRU sector is extremely varied and developing solutions, as part of the continuum of education provision rather than separate to it, has not been easy. So I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the EOTAS Task and Finish Group for their hard work.
When I addressed last year’s EOTAS conferences, I emphasised the importance of sector engagement in developing the Framework for Action. Input from the last three conferences has proved pivotal in determining the actions necessary to improve PRUs and wider EOTAS provision. It is vital that this engagement continues, which is why I am launching the EOTAS Framework for Action for consultation. The Framework contains 34 phased proposals, the finer details of which will be refined with engagement with the sector.
To facilitate the consultation and implement the final agreed actions, I have established an EOTAS Delivery Group and invited Dr Brett Pugh, former Director of School Standards and Workforce for the Welsh Government to chair the Group. The Delivery Group will be working with my officials to host engagement events during the consultation. The events will be held across Wales and details will be made available shortly. I would urge everyone working in the sector to attend.
https://consultations.gov.wales/consultations/eotas-framework-for-action