Agenda item

To receive the report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services.

The Board received the report of the Director of Community and Children’s Service providing Members with key information relating to the status of the Cultural and Creative Learning Projects following the implementation of the new funding model. 12 projects have now received funding. The combined associated cost of these projects is £184,315 of £190,000 available.

The Board noted that the Education Strategy Unit is now handling the Schools Visits Fund and applications have begun, and options for a new public-facing website are being explored. The Fund is being promoted through a range of channels. Since applications went live in September 2023, 41 applications from schools have been accepted and around 66 school trips are being facilitated for 2024. Virtual Schools across Greater London have been invited to apply for School Visits funding.

The Board noted that all Members would receive relevant information via email to support schools.

In response to a question on whether Dr Johnson’s House was included in the visits, the Board noted that the list of venues is being reviewed and that a proposal will be submitted to the Board by early 2024 on expanding the venues encompassed by the Fund.

A Member asked whether the Fund could be promoted at the London Careers Festival (LCF). The Board noted that there was scope for further promotion at the LCF. 

The Board asked whether unsuccessful applicants to the Cultural Learning Fund were given feedback. The Board heard that all applications were successful, with some adjustments to applications following feedback from the Education Strategy Unit.