Issue - meetings

Presentation by Area Manager, Skills Development Scotland

The Group considered a presentation by Susan MacRae, Skills Development Scotland (SDS), which provided information on school leaver data reporting. The presentation included information around the different forms of data reporting, with particular emphasis on the Annual Participation Measure. Susan provided an overview of the methods of data collection; different destination groupings; figures relating to recorded destinations for school leavers in the Helensburgh and Lomond area and across Argyll and Bute until now; and information around continuing trends and factors influencing these figures. As part of the presentation, Susan also provided attendees with a demonstration of how to use the SDS Annual Participation Measure website.

Councillor Paterson requested clarification as to what support was available for those who were categorised as unemployed – not seeking. Susan confirmed that SDS work in partnership with other agencies to ensure that these individuals are engaged with the correct services, and can assist in signposting them to the most appropriate local resources based on their individual circumstances.

Decision

The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Presentation by Susan MacRae, Area Manager, Skills Development Scotland, dated 18^th November 2021, submitted)

Presentation by Area Manager, Skills Development Scotland

The Group considered a presentation by Susan MacRae, Skills Development Scotland (SDS), which provided information on school leaver data reporting. The presentation included information around the different forms of data reporting, with particular emphasis on the Annual Participation Measure. Susan provided an overview of the methods of data collection; different destination groupings; figures relating to recorded destinations for school leavers in the MAKI area and across the Argyll and Bute area until now; and information around continuing trends and factors influencing these figures. As part of the presentation, Susan also provided attendees with a demonstration of how to use the SDS Annual Participation Measure website.

Susan noted that the next data set relating to school leavers as at Summer 2021 would be available in February 2022 and confirmed that she would return to provide an update to the Group at this point. 

Discussion took place around the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on young people and it was noted that the full impact of this was unlikely to be known for some time, however these concerns were being observed and picked up on at a national level. Susan confirmed that SDS would continue to work alongside partners, including the Community Learning Service and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), to support young people as much as possible through these challenges.

Decision

The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the information provided.

(Reference: Presentation by Susan MacRae, Area Manager, Skills Development Scotland, dated 2^nd November 2021, submitted)