Contact: Sarah Pook (01962) 847045; [email protected], Melanie Saunders, (01962) 846364, [email protected]

1 Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the Executive Lead Member for Children's Services (Education) consider the issues identified in the report following consideration of the Government Consultation "Raising Expectations" on the 16-18 funding transfer and agree that the Director of Children's Services make a response to the consultation incorporating these issues for the deadline of 9 June 2008.

2 Reason(s)

2.1 This decision supports the County Council priority:

"Maximising well being" - by better planning and commissioning of education for 16 to 18 year olds to meet local needs in Hampshire and planning the provision of the new vocational diplomas across the 14-19 age range.

2.2 The report sets out the issues and options for response, the impact of the change for Hampshire County Council will be significant.

3 Other options considered and rejected:

3.1 The options are whether to respond or not, and given the scale and importance of the consultation and the proposed impacts it is considered that Hampshire County Council will respond. The nature of the response and the issues raised are set out in the main report.

4 Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or other Executive member consulted - none (unless declared)

5 Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - none (unless granted)

Approved by: Date:

Councillor D. Kirk

Executive Lead Member for Children's Services

(Education)