Agenda item

Report of the Chair of the Learning & Engagement Forum [to follow].

Members considered a report of the Chair of the Learning & Engagement Forum concerning a research proposal on trends in the take-up of Arts GCSE subjects. The following comments were made.

·         The Chairman noted that there was a debate in the education sector of to what extent arts subjects had been in decline – a debate which to date lacked evidence.

·         The Deputy Chairman noted that the research, if approved, should focus on facts and avoid inherent bias, particularly given the research was being co-commissioned with the Arts Council England.

·         A Member supported the proposal but warned against focusing on the Ebacc. He suggested that there would be a difference between state and independent schools.

RESOLVED, that

·         The City of London Corporation co-commission, with the Arts Council England, research into the take-up of Arts GCSEs.