northlincs.gov.uk

The corresponding report of the following item (Minute 1 refers) contains exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended).

1          (1) REVIEW OF ADULT COMMUNITY LEARNING – The Director of Corporate and Community Services submitted a report which sought approval of a revised staffing structure for the council’s Adult Community Learning Service.

The key points outlined within the report, identified that the Adult Community Learning Service was being reviewed in the light of a number of issues and developments.  The report proposed a revised staffing structure that would achieve an annual reduction of around £250,000 and deliver improved service efficiency.

The council’s Adult Community Learning Service provided quality formal and informal learning opportunities for adults across North Lincolnshire.   The service was almost entirely funded by external grants through the Skills Funding Agency, the current value of these annual grants being around £1.5 million.

It was explained that the level of external funding had reduced in recent years since 2004, and there had been consequent falls in learner numbers.   Whilst service costs had remained largely at the same level, reserves of surplus grant had been carried forward each year to bridge the funding gap.   It was acknowledged that those reserves would not be able to support the service at its current cost base for the longer term.

It was considered that the proposed structure both achieved the necessary reduction in expenditure and made the service a more appropriate vehicle for partnership working with North Lindsey College and the council’s learning and development function.

Resolved – (a)  That the staffing structure, posts and grades for the Adult Community Learning Service as set out at Appendix 2 to the report be approved, and (b) that steps be taken in line with the council’s review protocol to have the new structure in place by 1 September 2012.

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Where there is no report this is because it is exempt, as it contains information which is considered to be of a confidential nature, as detailed in the Local Government (Access to Information) Act.