This week, we have been focusing on the achievements of our young people and the work the council is doing to ensure that they all have the best chance to thrive.
Education remains a cornerstone of that ambition. With 98% of our maintained schools rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, and pupils consistently performing above national averages we’re proud of everything that our young people have achieved.
But learning doesn’t stop at the school gates. Nearly 80% of schools now offer wrap-around care from 8am to 6pm, and our Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme has supported thousands of children with enriching activities and healthy meals during school breaks.
There has been a lot of discussion in the national media about kids that need extra help to thrive. In our borough we’re investing in inclusion. More than 200 new specialist SEND places have been created since 2022, ensuring children with additional needs can learn locally with the right support. Beyond the classroom, spaces like the refurbished Southall Young Adult Centre have been designed with young people offer safe, vibrant places to socialise, get active and explore creativity.
Supporting young people means standing by them when life gets tough. From mentoring and outreach to targeted programmes tackling youth violence and reducing reoffending, we’re helping those at risk find positive paths.
We want the best for all the borough’s young people but, as a council, we have a special responsibility to those who are in our care. That is why we have made being care experienced a protected characteristic. We’ve delivered almost all the pledges made at our care leavers’ summit in 2023: from housing and employment to wellbeing support. Nothing gives me more joy in my role than hearing about the fabulous achievements of our care leavers as they become young adults.
Opportunity is about more than grades. Through cultural initiatives like the New Gen Festival and youth-led events, we’re giving young people platforms to perform, create and build confidence.
Whether it’s a first performance, a new qualification or simply a safe place to belong, we’re investing in the moments that matter so every child grows up healthy, hopeful and ready to shape our borough’s future.
