BMBC 21: Barnsleys Local Area Agreement 2008-2011

The aim is to deliver a strategy that will transform learning with acurriculum relevant to the 21 st century, one which engages pupils andhelps them to enjoy and achieve. Within this, one of the key priorities isto improve the quality of provision (including teaching), and to providethe right learning opportunities for children and young people to ensurethat they can progress and achieve the highest possible levels ofattainment and fulfil their potential. In addition to achieving high levelsof attainment, the aim is also to develop an enterprising culture whereaspirations are high.Learner FirstThe importance of ‘learner first’ needs to be emphasised. By placingthe individual at the heart of their learning, recognising and embracingpersonalised learning needs, skills, talents and aptitudes, supported bya more diverse choice of learning pathways will ensure that theindividual is able to realise their potential. A rich and diverse continuumof learning opportunities, supported by excellent infrastructure, enableseach learner to access the best route for them, their circumstances andfuture aspirations and as such maximise their learning experience andultimate engagement with the labour market.Collaborative WorkingThe Third Sector plays an important role in providing servicesthroughout the borough to support children and young people toachieve their best at all key stages of development. In the earlychildhood years (pre-birth – 11) there is good collaboration between95health services, childcare providers, children’s centres and primaryschools. Improvements in 11–19 provision have derived fromcollaboration between schools, local colleges and work-based learningproviders, all of which have broadened the choice of curriculum offer foryoung people in a bid to meet individual needs.Children’s Centres and Primary School RedevelopmentThere is the recognition and understanding that families have a crucialrole to play in supporting learning within a child’s development. Stepsare being taken to facilitate this, with the new Play Strategy being animportant aspect of the process. The Children’s Centres Strategy hasresulted in one or more children’s centre in every area forum locality.The Primary School Private Finance Initiative programme has resultedin 13 new primary schools and the new Primary Strategy for ChangePlan will set out Barnsley’s Primary School building priorities in supportof the delivery of world class standards. It will also support the raisingstandards agenda by providing high quality teaching and learningenvironments and facilities, together with extended children’s servicesin reach of every family, placing primary schools at the heart of theircommunity.Advanced Learning Centres and Rebuilding Barnsley CollegeThe Advanced Learning Centres and the rebuilding programme atBarnsley College will, over the next few years, bring new and excitinglearning environments for young people in Barnsley. Building Schoolsfor the Future and the reorganisation of secondary schools intoHigh Performing Educational Institutions Barnsley’s Local Area Agreement 2008-11