Decision details

11.1

The Senior Manager Strategy Policy Performance and Development introduced the report which updated the Committee on progress with the programme and sought approval for Sheffield City Council to continue as the accountable body for this new funding and accept the grant funding on behalf of the partnership. The report also sought approval for Sheffield City Council (as lead authority for YHRP) to commission Higher Education Services for and on behalf of the YHRP.

11.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Education, Children and Families Policy Committee:-

1. Approves Sheffield City Council continuing as the Accountable Body and accepting on behalf of the Yorkshire and Humberside Step up to Social Work Regional Partnership, grant funding of in excess of £1.8m from the DFE for the Step up to Social Work Programme Cohort 9.
2. Approves Sheffield City Council becoming the lead authority for the Yorkshire and Humberside Regional Partnership and in that capacity, commissioning Higher Education Services to deliver the Step up to Social Work Programme as detailed in this report.
   
   

11.3

Reasons for Decision

11.3.1

11.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

11.4.1

Alternative Option 1: Sheffield City Council has been the lead authority for the Step up to Social Work programme since its inception at a pilot stage in 2010. The Regional Partnership is one of the largest in the country and is highly praised by the DfE for its success. The DfE asks Sheffield City Council for expert guidance and seek our advice for new Partnerships and for knowledge of the degree programme. To not agree this programme would damage the reputation of Sheffield City council and its 8 regional partners, alongside the Higher Education Institute (University provider) and the South Yorkshire Teaching partnership.

11.4.2

Alternative Option 2: Sheffield City Council wishes to continue to act as the lead authority for Step up to Social Work within the Yorkshire and Humberside region as it brings in a significant amount of funding over the 14-month period which supports our financial situation. We do engage in the social work apprenticeship 3-year BA Honours degree programme using the apprenticeship levy however this fast-track postgraduate degree programme is intensive and at no cost to the council.