To receive an update on the Early Language Support Project.
Minutes:
Members received an update on a joint project between health and education, which formed part of a two-year national pilot. The Board noted that Telford & Wrekin was one of only nine areas across the country involved in this initiative, which aimed to increase workforce capacity and address significant NHS waiting times linked to the SEND agenda. The project focused on early intervention for children with speech, language, and independence needs, delivered in partnership with the Council, Shropshire, the Integrated Care System, and Shropshire Community Health Trust.
The ELSEC: Advanced Practitioner for Education highlighted that approximately two million children in the UK experience these challenges, which can lead to poorer outcomes in Maths and English, increased mental health issues by age 11, and a higher likelihood of unemployment in adulthood. Within Telford & Wrekin, the project was now in its second academic cycle and had expanded from eight to ten schools this year. Members heard that by the end of the academic year, the programme will have reached 2,210 children locally and that the initiative included a range of interventions, supported by the ELSEC offer.
The Board were asked to note that data from the previous year had demonstrated significant improvements. Baseline assessments of pre-school cohorts showed that 45% of children were at age-appropriate levels, 28% were close to meeting expectations, and 27% had significant difficulties. By the end of the year, 70% were at age-appropriate levels, with only 16% still struggling. For Key Stage 1 pupils, the proportion meeting age expectations rose from 31% to 85%. The ELSEC: Advanced Practitioner for Education advised that Schools have strongly supported the project, and evidence showed that children requiring additional support were now making good progress. The programme has also helped reduce waiting lists, with some children no longer requiring wider assessments.
Members heard that feedback from early years settings and mainstream schools has been overwhelmingly positive as the project moved into its second wave. Sustainability had been a key consideration throughout, and early indications suggest that Education, Health and Care Plans have remained steady rather than increasing. Outcomes for children have improved by between 5% and 20%, and three additional schools launched the programme in the weeks leading to the meeting.
The Board were asked to note risks to the project included funding, which was currently secured until July 2026. However, delays in Government announcements regarding the second wave of funding presented challenges for future planning. Staff retention was also identified as a risk due to the reliance on fixed-term contracts.
During the discussion, Members praised the project, noting that improvements were easily measurable and supported by strong evidence of long-term impact. They expressed full support for its continuation and inquired if earlier interventions could be considered. The Director: Education & Skills described the initiative as an excellent example of early intervention and prevention, aligning with the ambition for the Best Start in Life agenda. He emphasised the need to promote childhood development and noted that the work was heavily dependent on continued funding but there were plans to integrate family hub sessions and explore models such as five by five.
The Board highlighted the targeted nature of the project and its short-term impact, stressing the importance of including outcomes in future reports and continuing collaborative delivery with both health and education partners.
The Board noted the update and commended the collaborative approach and measurable impact of the project.