Agenda item

Members welcomed the information contained in the progress report, and provided positive feedback in relation to the training that had been provided. 

Members expressed that in the spirit of the policy young people should be represented on all scrutiny committees, certainly they have provided added value to this committee.

Members discussed the access of children and young people to a high quality education, the curriculum for life and the view that it is necessary to move towards what children need to prepare for life. It should be embedded in the learning in the education environment. 

It was noted  that it is important that parents need to understand the need and be involved in the need for a curriculum for life.    Parental understanding will be an important.

Members raised the level of resource in different areas; the provision of music tuition or the ability of families to provide the necessary kit or equipment to be in a position to utilise sporting facilities.  The Cabinet Member advised that Cardiff 2030 provides that every child should have the opportunity to have a range of experiences, but noted that different schools need different resources, for example in some cases resources are required just to get some of those children ready to learn when the school days start.  

In relation to sport we have to make sure that children living in those areas have the chance to access facilities outside of school and not just during the day.  It was noted that Cardiff Met allows access to children in southern arc of Cardiff to use the facilities in the Cardiff Met sporting campus.  As a Council we have to become more creative and to use support of partner networks to assist young people. It is not just the responsibility of schools.

Members discussed pollution in the city and noted that 20 mph zones were being extended, and queried whether anti-idling zones could be considered.  The Cabinet Member advised that Highways are currently reviewing the position.  There will be exclusion zones but they are starting with schools, particularly those with difficult locations and access.  Hamadryad School is an example of a school which has taken responsibilities seriously about having a proper transport plan.  It is difficult to change parental mind-set but it is possible.  One of the best ways is to get the young people involved as they will be better at policing parents.

Members discussed the financial impact of the programme; what is the spend and what have we got from it?  The purpose of the Child Friendly programme is actually to ensure that we are respecting Children’s rights and put in a framework to challenge colleagues - Are you genuinely respecting their rights and what it means? Some people do not have the depth of understanding.  That is now question is now being tested as is whether or not we have a robust process in place.  It has to be sustainable.  We will be judged in due course as to whether or not the changes that have been made are sustainable.