States Assembly | Approved Panel Minutes - Children, Education and Home Affairs

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Meeting held by electronic mail

Date: 11th January 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair
Absent	Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Draft Crime (Public Order) (Jersey) Law 202-

The Panel considered and approved its draft comments paper on the Draft Crime (Public Order) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.97/2023).

The Panel approved that its comments paper be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the officer to make relevant arrangements.

Date: 22nd January 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Katie Bastiman, Communications Officer (Item 3 only)

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 21st and 27th November, and 4th and 18th December 2023.
2. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel noted it had been due to receive Minister for Justice and Home Affairs for its first Quarterly Hearing of the year on 24th January 2024. Following the States Assembly's approval of the Vote of No Confidence: Chief Minister (P.1/2024), the hearing had been cancelled. The Panel agreed to review all its arranged 2024 quarterly hearing dates at the earliest opportunity, following the appointment of incoming Ministers.
3. Briefing: Inclusive language and the LGBTQ+ community The Panel received a presentation and briefing on Inclusive language and the LGBTQ+ community' from the Communications Officer. It was noted that the information provided by the briefing might be particularly useful in the context of the Panel's review of the Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202-. The Panel was provided with information and some brief context to highlight the importance of choosing inclusive language when referring to the LGBTQ+ community and, briefly, how the use of language had changed for that community over time. The Panel had the opportunity to ask questions and it was confirmed that the Communications Officer would be happy to assist with any queries in future. It was confirmed that a copy of the presentation would be shared with the Panel via Teams after the briefing, for future reference. The Panel thanked the Communications Officer, and she left the meeting.

4. Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023)

The Panel discussed the current status of its review of the Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023).

The Panel noted that, following the approval of P.1/2024, the Assistant Minister for Children and Education had asked the Chair whether the Panel would consider withdrawing its review of P.104/2023, so that the Assembly could consider a shortened lodging period. On Wednesday 17th January 2024, the Chair consulted with the Panel members and subsequently contacted the Assistant Minister by email to confirm that the Panel would continue with its review.

Whilst the Panel noted its sympathy with the potential for further delay to the debate, it was agreed that the objective approach was to ensure that the Panel fulfilled its obligation to undertake legislative scrutiny.

The Panel noted that the evidence gathering stage could continue to collect evidence from external stakeholders in period of time before a new Council of Ministers was formed, however, the Panel agreed that it would not send its review-based queries to the Minister for Children and Education or Assistant Minister until the future incumbent(s) of the post were confirmed.

The Panel noted that, to date, it had received 2 submissions from members of the public responding to its open call for evidence. The Panel referenced some negative comments posted on the social media promotions of its review, but that this viewpoint had not been reflected in the formal submissions to the review to date.

The Panel requested that its officers send follow up correspondence by email to the targeted stakeholders who had not responded by the initial deadline (24th January 2024) in order to ascertain whether they would be providing a submission.

The Panel agreed that it would appraise its planned review timeframe and agree the next steps at its meeting on 12th February 2024.

KdC / JB

5. Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (P.2/2024)

The Panel discussed the lodging of P.2/2024 and noted a brief history of the scrutiny undertaken on the Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Law to date. The Panel agreed to invite the Minister for Children and Education to a briefing, in due course, to discuss any outstanding queries that the Panel had ahead of the debate of P.2/2024.

Officers undertook to draft a briefing paper for the Panel with some further details about the background and context relevant to P.2/2024.

KdC / JB

6. Scrutiny Review: Secondary Education Funding

The Panel discussed the next steps of its review and noted that it planned to take it forward without the support of an expert advisor.

The Panel had sought quotes from external providers to help with the analysis of its survey responses. The Panel agreed that it would not be appropriate to take forward this work or submit approval requests to the Scrutiny Liaison Committee (SLC) for changes to the funding approval until after the new Council of Ministers was appointed (and any resulting changes to the SLC had been made as a consequence).

KdC/ JB

The Panel instructed officers to contact the targeted stakeholders to follow up on engagement with the review.
7. Feedback on the Draft Children and Families' Plan 2024-2027 The Panel discussed the Draft Children and Families' Plan 2024-2027 (the draft Plan'), which it had been sent to the Panel at the request of the Minister for Children and Education on 11th January 2024 for its comments as part of an initial review. Feedback was requested to be provided by 22nd January 2024. The Panel agreed that it would not be appropriate to provide political feedback to Government at this juncture following the Vote of No Confidence: Chief Minister (P.1/2024), whilst there was no Council of Ministers in place. The Panel instructed officers to convey this feedback to the relevant Government Officer but requested that, if possible, it be included as a consultee at the next stage of the drafting process, whether this be through a briefing or the opportunity to provide its comments on the next version of the draft Plan.	KdC
8. States Business The Panel noted the recent Letters, Reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting. The Panel noted the recent vote of no confidence in the Chief Minster and the impact it had on the Panels work in the near term. The Panel noted that the debate on the Draft Crime (Public Order) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.97/2023) had been deferred by the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs on Wednesday 17th January 2024. The Panel had submitted a comments paper on the proposition but had highlighted in that paper that it had not had time to review the Child Rights Impact Assessment (CRIA) prior to the debate. The Panel noted that the relevant CRIA had since been presented as an addendum to the proposition and noted that it could therefore consider this in more detail before the debate. The Panel agreed to consider whether it had any further comments on the CRIA related to P.97/2023.
9. Work programme The Panel noted its planned work programme, but acknowledged that it was subject to change, depending on the forthcoming decisions made in the States Assembly.
10. Any Other Business The Panel noted the following matters: • School uniform vendor JSSK was to close. The school uniform policy change that limits the number of compulsory bespoke items in schools was cited as a factor in this decision. • The Panel considered inviting the All Matters Neurodiverse Jersey Chair in for a meeting to discuss neurodiverse support available in Jersey. • The Panel noted that the Bailiff had introduced new guidance to support children and young people appearing in court. The Panel noted that it had not seen the guidance in advance, as it was not issued through a Ministerial department. • The Panel noted that the 2023 BeHeard Survey results for Government of Jersey Departments had been published and that the CYPES Department

had received an index score below the public sector average. The Panel agreed to make some further enquiries about the results in due course.

The Panel noted that a member of the public who had contacted the Chair with concerns in relation to the CYPES Department had been signposted towards the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel's Follow-up review of People and Culture.

11. Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled meeting was due to take place at 9:00am on Monday 12th February 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel

Record of Meeting

Date: 12th February 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings The Panel noted its approval of records of meetings held on 11th and 22nd January 2024 electronically prior to the meeting.
2. Schedule of Quarterly Hearings for 2024 The Panel's noted a number of changes that had been made to the schedule of quarterly Public Hearing dates for 2024 following the change of Government and confirmation of new Ministers. It was noted that the Government had publicised its intention to change the Minister for Children and Education role into two Ministries, namely, a Minister for Children and Families' and a Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning'. The current Minister for Children and Education would become the Minister for Children and Families and an election would be held to appoint the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning in due course. The Panel noted its intent to utilise the Public Hearing dates it had arranged with the Minister for Children and Education for the Public Hearings with the Minister for Children and Families. Dates for separate Hearings with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning would be arranged in due course, once appointed. The Panel discussed question areas for its next Public Hearings with the Minister for Children and Education on 7th March 2024 (with the anticipation that this would be focused on the Children and Families remit) and the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs (24th April 2024). The Panel noted that the Prison Governor had been invited to attend its next Public Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs on 24th April 2024. The Panel agreed to review the question plan, which had been prepared for its cancelled Public Hearing on 24th January 2024, and to adapt questions accordingly for the new Minister.	KdC / JB
3. Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023) The Panel noted the content of a briefing paper and received an update from the Committee and Panel Officer on the status of the Scrutiny review of the Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023) (the Review'). The Panel also noted the correspondence log, which included details of the submissions

received to date. The Chair undertook to directly contact a key stakeholder who had yet to respond to the Panel's correspondence.

The Panel discussed timings for the Review, which had been impacted by the change of Government and uncertainty over whether Panel membership would change. The Proposition was currently listed on the States Assembly Order Paper for 19th March 2024.

The Panel also discussed whether it wanted to call the Minister for Children and Education, or invite other stakeholders, to Hearings to gather further evidence for the Review. The Committee and Panel Officer advised that, if the Panel was minded to do this, it would be necessary to hold any Hearings the week commencing 19th February at the latest, in order to produce written output for the Review in advance of the States Assembly sitting on 19th March 2024. It was highlighted that this timing would be challenging and, if the Panel did want to hold a Hearing, it should be prepared to further discuss the debate date with the Minister and, if necessary, formally call the Proposition in for further scrutiny on 19th March 2024.

The Panel noted its electronic approval of a letter to the Minister for Children and Education on 7th February 2024. The Minister's response was expected to be received on 14th February 2024; however, the Panel had been notified that responses to a small number of the questions would follow on 23rd February (due to some key officer absence during half term). The Panel acknowledged that its letter had been lengthy and was content with this approach.

The Panel discussed some of the matters which had been highlighted to it in submissions to the Review so far. One of the themes of submissions received from the members of the public had been about delays in progressing the legislation which would support the rights of same-sex parents and the problems and challenges that this was causing for local families.

The Panel discussed the merits of collecting further evidence for its Review through a Hearing but was mindful that a further delay for the debate of the Proposition would be a minimum of 4 weeks, as the Assembly sitting after 19th March was 16th April 2024 (after Easter holidays).

The Panel had not collected any evidence to date that raised specific concerns about the draft Proposition, and it was hoped that the Minister's written response would capture information on some of the outstanding queries.

The Panel agreed that, at this time, it would not schedule Public Hearings for the review and would not ask the Minister to agree to a further deferral of the debate. The Panel agreed that it would work to complete its Review and publish written output during the week commencing 11th March 2024.

The Panel agreed that it would present its Review findings in a Scrutiny Report, if possible, but agreed that a Comments Paper would be acceptable if a report could not be completed in the required deadline.

4. Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (P.2/2024)

The Panel noted and discussed a briefing paper prepared by its officers in respect of the Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (P.2/2024).

The Panel then reviewed and approved, subject to minor amendments, a draft letter to the Minister for Children and Education in respect of P.2/2024.	KdC
5. Secondary Education Funding Review The Panel noted a briefing paper with updates on the Secondary Education Funding Review. The next steps were discussed, and it was agreed to secure services of a third party to undertake the analysis of the survey responses from the original expert advisor funding. The Panel agreed to provide a notification to the Scrutiny Liaison Committee (SLC) of a budget reduction in due course. The Panel reiterated its desire to progress with the review at the earliest opportunity.	KdC / JB
6. States Business The Panel noted the recent Letters, Reports, and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting. The Panel also noted the appointment of new Ministers and Assistant Ministers in the States Assembly and other recent changes to Scrutiny Panels, which would also impact the Scrutiny Liaison Committee.
7. Work Programme The Panel noted its planned work programme for 2024 and provided a number of suggested updates to officers. The Panel requested that officers arrange visits to primary schools in relation to its interest in the progress of the school meals programme.	KdC
8. Any Other Business The Panel discussed: • Assigning delegated topic areas to different Panel Members to act as the Panel's spokesperson. The Panel agreed to consider this further before agreeing delegations. • The UK Online Safety Bill and considered its impact on children and queried its impact on Jersey. The Panel asked its officers to prepare a briefing paper in this regard for discussion at its next meeting on 4th March 2024. • The Government's intention to nominate Deputy Rob Ward as the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning. Deputy Ward was a member of the Reform Jersey' Political Party, as were Deputies Curtis and Porée . If Deputy Ward 's election as Minister was approved by the Assembly, the officer confirmed that the political party connection was not considered to be a conflict or a restriction on the role of the Scrutiny Panel and referenced that scrutiny from members within the same political party was standard in other jurisdictions. As ever, all elected members would need to abide by the Standing Orders of the Assembly and the relevant Codes of Practice (for Scrutiny Panels / Ministers / Engagement). The Panel noted the importance of impartiality and objectivity in Panel proceedings.	KdC/ JB

9. Future Meetings

To note that the Panel's next scheduled private meeting will take place at 9.00 am on Monday 4th March 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Connétable Labey provided his apologies for the next meeting.

Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel

Record of Meeting

Date: 4th March 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
Apologies	Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the record of the meeting held on 12th January 2024.
2. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families The Panel reviewed and approved the question plan for its next Public Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families on 7th March 2024. The Panel asked Officers to include a small number of additional questions and to make a number of minor amendments before sharing an updated version on Teams.	KdC
3. Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023) The Panel reviewed its draft report for the review of the Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023) (the draft Report'). The Panel noted that the draft Report had been circulated on Teams the previous week and that Connétable Labey had acknowledged receipt and been provided with the opportunity to provide feedback electronically. The Panel discussed queries with the Committee and Panel Officer and made a number of minor comments and suggestions for change. The Panel approved the draft findings and recommendations, subject to the discussed amendments. The Panel requested that the relevant sections of the draft Report be circulated to stakeholders for factual checking. The Panel then discussed the proposed timeline for the final approval and publication of the draft Report. The Panel requested that a meeting be scheduled for 10am on Monday 11th March 2024 to discuss any feedback received from the fact checking process and, if thought fit, to approve the final report for publication.	KdC / JB
4. Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (P.2/2024) The Panel noted receipt of a letter from the Minister for Children and Education on 20th February 2023 in respect of the Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (the Commencement Act').

The Panel noted that it had requested a comments paper be drafted in respect of the Commencement Act and received an update on its status from the Committee and Panel Officer.
5. Secondary Education Funding Review The Committee and Panel Officer advised the Panel that there was no update or progress with the Panel's Secondary Education Funding Review due to other current workload.
6. Briefing Document: The United Kingdom's Online Safety Act 2023 The Panel reviewed and discussed a briefing paper on the UK Online Safety Act prepared by the Panel's Officers. The Panel asked Officers to make arrangements to publish the briefing paper.	KdC / JB
7. States Business The Panel noted the recent Letters, Reports, and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting. The Panel asked Officers to check how the schedule of questions without notice would be impacted by the introduction of a new Minister.	JB
8. Work Programme The Panel noted its planned work programme for 2024 and provided a number of suggested updates to Officers including that Online Safety', as discussed in the previous item of these minutes, should be highlighted as a potential cross-panel area of work (in conjunction with the Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel). The Panel also noted receipt of a letter from the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 22nd February 2024 in response to its queries about Student Finance and Higher Education.	CDCs
9. Any Other Business Areas discussed were: • The Committee and Panel Officer advised that other newly constituted Scrutiny Panels would be exploring opportunities for training and visits and confirmed that the Panel could join these, if desired. Further information would be provided in due course, but the Panel were encouraged to advise officers of their areas of interest further training. • The Panel requested that its officers follow up the request for visits to see the delivery of Primary School meals at local schools. • The Panel requested a visit be arranged to learn about the Jersey Library Service. • Queries were made about the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board (CICB), specifically regarding remuneration of members. The Panel asked its Officers to research the CICB and provide more information, if possible. • Queries were made about the Children & Young People's Placement Panel (CYPPP). The Panel asked its Officers to research the CYPPP and provide more information, if possible. • At the Panel's Quarterly Hearing in December the Minister for Children and Education confirmed that a pay supplement was being provided to	KdC/ JB

substantive Children's Social Workers in Jersey. The Panel included a possible query on this area to its question plan for 7th March, however, asked Officers to research this further after the hearing.

10. Future Meetings

To note that the Panel's next private meeting will take place at 10.00am on Monday 11th March 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Fiona Cisneros, Interim Director, Children's Services

Darren Bowring, Associate Director, CAMHS, Mental Health and Wellbeing

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Children and Families

The Panel noted and discussed its question plan in preparation for the Public Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families at 12.00 pm.

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Children and Families, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 12.00pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed key topics to include on any media updates with the Communications Officer.

07.03.2024

Date: 11th March 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
Apologies	Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023)

The Panel reviewed its draft report for the review of the Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023) (the review report').

The officer provided the Panel with an overview of all the factchecking responses received from stakeholders and the Panel approved several minor amendments and clarifications.

Subject to the suggested amendments accepted during the factchecking process, the Panel noted and approved its review report. It was noted that a summary of the review report would also be shared in a digital version on publication of the final review report. The digital version would be sent to the Chair for approval.

The Panel requested that its review report be publicised through social media and a press release.

KdC

2. Future Meetings

The Panel noted its next private meeting would take place at 9.00am on Monday 18th March 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member (online, via Teams)

In attendance

Andrew Heaven, Head of Policy, Cabinet Office Natalie Kemp Senior Policy Officer, Cabinet Office Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing: Draft Children and Families Plan

The Panel received Officers for a private briefing about the Draft Children and Families Plan.

This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35 and a private record was taken.

Meeting held by electronic mail

Date: 15th March 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (P.2/2024)

The Panel considered and approved its draft comments paper on the Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (P.2/2024).

The Panel approved that its comments paper be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the officer to make relevant arrangements.

KdC

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Records of Meetings

The Panel approved the record of the meeting held on 4th March 2024.

2. Quarterly Hearings

The Panel noted that it was due to receive the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs (MJHA) for a quarterly public hearing on Wednesday 24th April 2024. The Panel discussed subject areas and questions to ask the MJHA and requested that the officer put them into a consolidated question plan for the Panel to review and, if thought fit, approve at its meeting on 15th April 2024.

The Panel noted that it had previously made arrangements for the Prison Governor to attend the Panel's public hearing in April. However, on review of the topics it wished to prioritise for its question plan, following the change of Minister in post, the Panel decided that it would defer the invitation at this time and asked the officer to convey the message accordingly, with its thanks for the original agreement to attend.

The Panel noted that quarterly hearings had been agreed with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning (MELL) on the following dates:

• Thursday 25th April 2024;

• Thursday 19th September 2024; and

• Friday 6th December 2024.

It was noted that a date for a hearing in June 2024 was also being explored but was yet to be confirmed. The Panel discussed questions to ask the MELL and requested that the officer put them into a consolidated question plan for the Panel to review and, if thought fit, approve at its meeting on 15th April 2024.

The Panel discussed public engagement for its quarterly public hearings scheduled for April 2024 and asked for the officer to arrange for social media posts to invite the public to submit question suggestions to the Panel, for consideration at its next meeting on 15th April 2024.

KdC

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3. Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023) The Panel noted that it had published its scrutiny Report on the Review of the Draft Children and Civil Status (Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.104/2023) on 13th March 2024 (S.R.2/2024). It was noted that the Ministerial Response would be due on 24th April 2024. The Chair of the Panel was the main respondent for P.104/2023, which would be debated by the States Assembly in the sitting commencing on 19th March 2024.
4. Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- (P.2/2024) The Panel noted that it had published a Comments Paper on the Review of the Draft Children and Young People (Jersey) Commencement Act 202- on 15th March 2024 (S.R.2/2024). The Chair of the Panel was the main respondent for P.2/2024, which would be debated by the States Assembly in the sitting commencing on 19th March 2024.
5. Secondary Education Funding Review The officer advised that an update on the engagement brief for the survey review support would be circulated to the Panel at a later date on Teams.
6. Training The Panel noted that group training, with a focus of questioning and public hearings, was being offered to all scrutiny panels. The Panel agreed that it would like to receive the training and asked the officer to review members' diaries for mutually agreeable dates.	KdC
7. States Business The Panel noted the recent Letters, Reports, and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting. The Panel noted that a number of links in the agenda paper, which had been previously shared on Microsoft Teams were not working and asked the officer to review this and provide updated links, where necessary.	KdC
8. Work Programme The Panel noted its planned work programme for 2024.
9. Any Other Business The Chair advised the Panel that she had been copied into a letter to the MELL from the Women's Rights Network Jersey regarding the Transgender Guidance for schools. The Chair shared the content of the letter with the Panel, which was duly noted.
10. Future Meetings The Panel note that it's next private meeting would take place at 9.00am on Monday 15th April 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Kate Briden, Chief Officer, Justice and Home Affairs Department

Peter Gavey, Chief Ambulance Officer, States of Jersey Ambulance Service Paul Brown, Chief Fire Officer, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service Robin Smith, Chief Officer, States of Jersey Police

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing: Emergency Services Control Centre

The Panel received the Chief Officers for a private briefing about proposed changes to the Emergency Services Control Centre.

This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35 and a private record was taken.

Date: 15th April 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair
Absent	Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Katie Bastiman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 11th, 13th, 15th, 18th and 26th March.	KdC
2. Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel noted that it was due to receive the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs for a Public Quarterly Hearing on Wednesday 24th April 2024. The Panel discussed and agreed its question plan for the hearing, subject to minor amendments. The plan included questions and topic areas which had been submitted and suggested by members of the public.	KdC
3. Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning The Panel noted that it was due to receive the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning for a Public Quarterly Hearing on Thursday 25th April 2024. The Panel discussed and agreed its question plan for the hearing, subject to minor amendments. The plan included questions and topic areas which had been submitted and suggested by members of the public.	KdC
4. Secondary Education Funding Review The Panel noted the engagement brief for an external advisor to undertake the review of the secondary education funding review survey responses and was also provided with a verbal update on the procurement process.
5. Training for Public Hearings and Questioning The Panel noted that its group training session had been arranged for the afternoon of Wednesday 8th May 2024. Further details would be circulated by the officer in due course.	KdC

6. Letter from the Minister for Children and Families

The Panel noted receipt of the letter of response from the Minister for Children and Families dated 22nd March 2024. The Panel discussed the letter and asked the officer to follow up on a number of outstanding points, including the status of the Government's safe recruitment policy and the publication of the Article 30A report.

KdC

7. States Business

The Panel noted the recent Letters, Reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting.

The Panel noted that both the Minister for Children and Families and the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning were scheduled to respond to oral questions without notice in the States Assembly sitting scheduled for 30th April 2024.

8. Work Programme

The Panel noted its planned work programme for 2024.

9. Any Other Business

The Panel discussed the following.

• The Panel asked officers to set up a meeting with the Jersey Child Care Trust.

• The Panel asked officers to conduct some brief research on i) the Government's resilience working groups; and ii) student maintenance grants. Details would be shared in short posts on the Panel's Teams channel in the first instance.

• The Panel asked officers to locate a recent media article about the States of Jersey Police and share a copy on its Teams channel, for future reference.

10. Future Meetings

The Panel noted its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9.00am on Monday 20th May 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Date: 24th April 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

Apologies

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Connétable Richard Vibert , Assistant Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Kate Briden, Chief Officer, Justice and Home Affairs

Scott Hall , Deputy Chief Officer, States of Jersey Police

Andrew Hunt, Assistant Director, Jersey Customs and Immigration Service Nathan Fox, Associate Director, Justice Policy, Cabinet Office

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Katie Bastiman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

The Panel noted and discussed its question plan in preparation for the Public Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families at 3.00 pm.

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 3.00 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed key topics to include on a social media update with the Communications Officer.

Date: 2nd May 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning Seán O'Regan, Group Director for CYPES

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Jonathan Williams, Programme Director for Education Reform, CYPES Keith Posner, Associate Director, Innovation, Transformation and Business Support

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Katie Bastiman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel noted and discussed its question plan in preparation for the Public Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families at 12:30pm.

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 12:30pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed key topics to include on a social media update with the Communications Officer.

Meeting held by electronic mail

Date: 7th May 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Common Strategic Policy 2024-2026

The Panel considered and approved its draft amendment to the Common Strategic Policy 2024-2026 (P.21/2024).

The Panel approved that its amendment be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the officer to make relevant arrangements.

KdC

Date: 10th May 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Fiona Vacher, Executive Director, Jersey Child Care Trust Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Early Years

The Panel received Fiona Vacher, Executive Director of the Jersey Child Care Trust (the Executive Director) to discuss Early Years education and childcare in Jersey.

The Panel had invited the Executive Director to meet with them, in order to provide her expert insight and further perspective on the Early Years sector, which had been an area of interest to the Panel and had also been listed as a priority in the Council of Ministers' proposed Common Strategic Policy for 2024-2026 [P.21/2024] (namely, to "extend nursery and childcare provision").

Connétable Labey and Deputy Porée each advised the meeting that members of their respective households were employed in the Early Years sector in Jersey.

The Executive Director began by emphasising the importance of early life experiences for children, including impact on their future development, and advised the Panel that 80% of a child's brain was developed by the age of 3.

The Panel was advised that the Jersey Child Care Trust (JCCT) was a registered charity in Jersey. It undertook support work to help children have their best start in life, and to make a positive difference to children's future development. The JCCT currently supported 60 children with disabilities in nurseries across Jersey who had the highest level of need in terms of support. The JCCT also fund nursery places for 2-3 year olds who all live in poverty and have a developmental delay, circa 10% of the 2-3 year old population.

The Executive Director opined that there was insufficient support available to the tier of children under those who classified with the highest level of need. In response to questions from the Panel, it was explained that families who qualified for income support benefit were not the only families supported by the JCCT and that some of the families who did not qualify for income support were the most vulnerable. For example, this included people who had lived in the Island for under 5 years or those who earned just over the threshold for income support but had very little disposable income after housing costs.

The Panel was advised that the JCCT had observed an increase in the number of families supported where there were two working parents, but the family was living in poverty.

Nursery provision and challenges

Parallels between the proposals to extend nursery childcare provision in Jersey and the proposals in the United Kingdom were discussed. The importance of supporting all families with either working or non-working parents was also highlighted, so that no children were disadvantaged or excluded from early years settings.

The Executive Director highlighted that maintaining, or improving, the quality of nursery care had to be the key priority for any change made by Government. It was explained that extensive evidence from research proves that it could be damaging for a child to go into a setting that did not support their needs.

The Executive Director detailed a number of challenges currently facing the Early Years sector, including a loss of staff (to retirement, relocation or other industries) and that a number of staff who had qualifications and experience were being paid minimum wage, and suggested that this did not make it an appealing career for individuals in the long term. The Panel was advised that the JCCT had worked to address this challenge by creating different tiers of roles in their own organisation, to allow progression and career development. There were a number of barriers discussed around the challenges of recruitment and retention, and some possible solutions discussed included the possibility of more apprenticeships.

It was noted that Early Years childcare qualifications were mainly attained locally through Highlands College. It was estimated that the full time level 3 course had approximately 40 students per year, but that not all these students went to work in day nurseries. It was suggested that this was because it was highly pressured work, with long working hours for minimum wage pay.

The Panel noted that recent changes had been made to Jersey's work permit policy and that various jobs relevant to the Early Years sector were now included in the list of skilled occupations, which would allow individuals to come to Jersey to work on a work permit as nursery assistants or childcare assistants, etc.

The complexities of the recruitment and retention were acknowledged by the Panel.

The issue of high insurance costs for day nurseries and childcare providers was briefly discussed and noted as a current challenge.

The use of the Nursery Education Fund (NEF) was also discussed, and the Panel agreed that it would gather some more information about the NEF, to further understand its operation and governance. During the discussion it was highlighted that there was no requirement for nurseries receiving NEF funding to pay staff the living wage.

Poverty

The Panel discussed the impact of poverty on childhood. The Panel was advised that the JCCT, other third sector providers, and the Government of Jersey were all undertaking activity to help children living in poverty have a better future. However, the Executive Director highlighted that the work was not captured under one strategic view or strategy with an agreed collective objective, for example: "eradicating

childhood poverty". She opined that there should be an overarching strategy and that the lead for any strategic vision to eradicate childhood poverty had to come from Government and would, ideally, include centralised data capture.

The Panel noted that the Children, Young People and Families' Plan for 2024-2027 was due to be published shortly but recalled that "poverty" was not specifically mentioned in the document.

The Panel thanked the Executive Director for her time and insight, and the meeting was concluded.

Date: 20th May 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings th April 2024. The Panel noted and approved the record of the meeting held on 15	KdC
2. Work Programme The Panel noted its planned work programme for 2024. The Panel discussed online safety and tasked Officers to draft a scoping document for the Panel to hold a standalone hearing on online safety and undertake research associated with this subject to inform the Panel's question plan.	KdC/JB
3. Quarterly Hearings The Panel noted its group training on questioning on 8th May 2024. The Panel discussed and provided Officers with topic areas it wanted to question each Minister on at the following scheduled public quarterly hearings: • Minister for Children and Families – 9th June • Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning – 19th June • Minister for Justice and Home Affairs – 25th July.	KdC/JB
4. Secondary Education Funding Review The Panel received an update from Officers on the current status of the survey analysis, and that a first draft of this was expected to be received on 28th May 2024. The Panel asked Officers to draft a letter to advise Ministers of the re-launch of its review and to arrange a hearing for 10th of July 2024 with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning. The Panel tasked Officers to draft a list of stakeholders and a draft question plan for its hearing.	KdC/JB
5. States Business The Panel noted the recent letters, reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting. The Panel noted the Amendment lodged by the Council of Ministers to its Amendment to the Common Strategic Policy (P.21/2024), which changed the words " St. Helier " to "Town". The Panel had discussed the Amendment electronically and had agreed that it would accept this. The effect of the Amendment to the Amendment

was that it would ensure that St Luke's school and St Saviour would be included in the definition (whilst not physically located in St Helier - their catchment areas did include St Helier).

6. Any Other Business

The Panel discussed the following:

• The Panel noted an invitation for it to join the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on a visit to Jersey Library on 29th May.

• The Chair advised the Panel that she had been in email correspondence with the Headteacher at Janvrin Primary School and asked Officers to arrange a visit to the school for the Panel.

• The Chair undertook to speak with the Chair of the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel about a possible joint visit to the charity Eyecan to discuss support provided for children's glasses.

• The Panel had some more group photographs taken for use as part of Scrutiny Panel updates on the States Assembly's social media accounts.

7. Future Meetings

The Panel noted its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9.00am on Monday 3rd June 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present	Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
Apologies	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings The Panel noted and approved the record of the meetings held on 7th March, 24th April, 2nd May, 7th May, and 20th May 2024.
2. Work Programme The Panel noted its planned work programme for 2024. The Panel noted that it would receive briefings on: • Draft amendments to the Mental Health Law, which would impact young offenders held in secure accommodation, on 5th June 2024; • extension of British Nationality legislation, on the 7th of June 2024. The Panel asked officers to request more information to be shared with the Panel ahead of briefing; • Proposed changes to the status and title of the Family Division Registrar role, on 10th June 2024; and • Proposed changes to child remand, on 18th June 2024. The Panel also noted that the Government Plan 2025 – 2028 was expected to be lodged in July 2024.	KdC/JB
3. Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families The Panel discussed and agreed its question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Children and Families on the 19th of June 2024, subject to amendments. The plan included questions and topic areas which had been discussed by the Panel.	KdC
4. Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning The Panel discussed and agreed its question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on the 19th of June, subject to minor amendments. The plan included questions and topic areas which had been discussed by the Panel.	KdC
5. Secondary Education Funding Review	KdC/JB

The Panel received an update from officers on the current status of the survey analysis, and that a first draft had been expected to be received on 28th May 2024. The Panel was advised that that survey analysis was reportedly making progress but that first draft was not ready to be shared with the Panel, an update would be provided at the earliest opportunity.
6. States Business The Panel noted the recent letters, reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting. The Panel asked for officers to request further information about MD-HA-2024-400 (related to changes to Ambulance tariffs) and MD-ELL-2024-425 (related to fee increases for Higher Education, Adult Community Education and Apprentice course fee increases).	KdC/JB
7. Any Other Business The Panel discussed the following: The Panel noted that it had been invited to attend a visit to Rouge Bouillon school with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning. Connétable M. Labey provided his advanced apologies for the visit. .
8. Future Meetings The Panel noted its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9.00am on Monday 24th June 2024 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Ben Sandeman, Policy Principal, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance, Cabinet Office

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing: Draft Mental Health (Young Offenders) Law Amendment (Jersey) Regulations 202- (the Regulations')

The Panel received the Policy Principal for a private briefing about the Regulations which proposed changes to the Mental Health (Jersey) Law 2016. If approved, the Regulations would specifically apply to children and young people under the age of 21 years old, who were serving a sentence of youth detention in secure accommodation.

The Panel was advised that the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel had been separately briefed about the Regulations.

This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 36 and a private record was taken.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Jacqueline Tobias, Assistant Legal Adviser, Law Officers Department Warr en Simmonds, Legal and Policy Principal – Immigration and Nationality, Customs and Immigration Department

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing: updates to legislation relating to British nationality

The Panel received the Assistant Legal Adviser and the Legal and Policy Principal for a private briefing about a draft proposition which would ask the States Assembly to agree the extension of various British nationality provisions from UK legislation to Jersey. It was highlighted to the Panel that the proposals dealt exclusively with nationality and would not include elements which related to immigration control.

It was noted that the proposition was likely to be lodged in summer 2024 and the Panel accepted the offer of a further briefing nearer that time.

This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35 and a private record was taken.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Rebecca Morley-Kirk, Judicial Greffier Maria Washington, Senior Policy Officer

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing: Draft Family Division Registrar (Change of Status and Title) (Jersey) Law 202- (the Draft Law)

The Panel received the Judicial Greffier and a Senior Policy Officer for a private briefing about the proposed Draft Law which proposed changes to the Royal Court (Jersey) Law 1948 and would also make consequential amendments to a number of other pieces of legislation.

This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 36 and a private record was taken.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

Apologies

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Nathan Fox, Associate Director, Justice, Cabinet Office

Chay Pike, Senior Policy Officer, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance, Cabinet Office

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing: Legislative changes to child remand

The Panel received the Associate Director and the Senor Policy Officer for a private briefing about the Draft Children and Young People (Place of Police Detention) Miscellaneous Amendments (Jersey) Law 202- (the draft Law).

The Panel was advised that the draft Law was intended to provide a new option to remand a child or young person (10 to 18 years of age) in non-secure accommodation if they were arrested, charged and were waiting for the next available court date.

This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35 and a private record was taken.

The Panel was advised that the earliest that the draft Law would be lodged by the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs was the first week of July, for debate in September.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Agenda matter 1:

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Donna Marriott, Director of Children's Services

Darren Bowring, Associate Director, Mental Health and Wellbeing

Andrew Heaven, Senior Policy Officer, Cabinet Office

Agenda matter 2:

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning Seán O'Regan, Group Director for CYPES

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of CYPES

Nicola Mulliner, Head of Childcare and Early Years Services

Keith Posner, Associate Director, Innovation, Transformation and Business Support

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Children and Families

The Panel noted and discussed its question plan in preparation for the Public Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families at 9:00 am.

The Panel welcomed the Minister Children and Families, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 9.00 am. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed key topics to include on a social media update with the Communications Officer.

2. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel noted and discussed its question plan in preparation for the Public Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning at 2.00 pm.

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 2.00 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed key topics to include on a social media update with the Communications Officer.

Date: 20th June 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Draft Mental Health (Young Offenders) Law (Jersey) Amendment Regulations 202-

The Panel considered and approved its draft Comments Paper on the Draft Mental Health (Young Offenders) Law (Jersey) Amendment Regulations 202- (P.40/2024).

The Panel approved that its Comments Paper be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the officer to make relevant arrangements.

KdC

Date: 20th June 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Dr Carmel Corrigan, Children's Commissioner for Jersey

Tara Murphy, Policy Officer, Office of the Children's Commissioner for Jersey

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Introductory meeting with the Children's Commissioner for Jersey

The Panel received Dr Carmel Corrigan, the Children's Commissioner for Jersey (the Children's Commissioner) and the Policy Officer for an introductory meeting.

The Panel thanked the Children's Commissioner for the recent submission she had provided to the Panel's review of the Draft Mental Health (Young Offenders) Law (Jersey) Amendment Regulations 202- [P.40/2024] and this matter was discussed. The Panel confirmed that it was in the process of finalising its Comments on P.40/2024, for the attention of States Members ahead of the debate.

This remainder of the meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Absolute Exemption Article 26 and a private record was taken.

The Panel thanked the Children's Commissioner and the Policy Officer for their time and the meeting was concluded.

Date: 21st June 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Lieutenant Colonel Gareth Stockman, Jersey Field Squadron Major Ross J Barnes, Jersey Field Squadron

Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Visit to Jersey Field Squadron

The Panel visited Jersey Field Squadron base, Le Quesne Barracks, Mount Bingham, St Helier to learn more about the Squadron's history, plans, and how it operates.

The Panel was provided with a briefing on Jersey Field Squadron. The briefing explained the history of the Squadron, current and past operations, organisation structure, financial position, and challenges going forwards. The Panel had the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the briefing regarding recruitment, employer support, and about the facilities and equipment.

The Panel was then provided with a tour of the facilities, including the gym and sleeping area for the soldiers.

The Panel thanked the Officers for their time, and the site visit was concluded.

Date: 24th June 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 10th May, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 10th June 2024.
2. Work Programme The Panel reviewed its planned work programme for 2024 and noted that it was scheduled to receive the following briefings: • A briefing from the Attorney General about permissive extent clauses on 27th June (at the Panel's request); • A joint briefing with the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel on Emergency Planning on 12th September; and • A briefing about Skills Jersey and visits to Highlands College and Skills Jersey on 25th September 2024. The Panel agreed to continue its planned work to review online safety for children in Jersey. The Panel also noted that the Government Plan 2025–2028 was expected to be lodged in July 2024. The Officer reported that the Scrutiny Liaison Committee had agreed that the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel would lead the review and cover any overarching themes.	KdC/JB
3. Quarterly Public Hearing The Panel discussed its question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, which was scheduled to be held on 25th July 2024. The Panel tasked officers with adding additional areas to the question plan. The Chair noted that she would be unable to attend the hearing as scheduled and, after discussion, requested the Officer to enquire whether the Minister would be amenable to rearrange the date for the hearing.	KdC/JB
4. Secondary Education Funding Review The Panel noted its hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning in relation to the Secondary Education Funding Review on 10th July 2024 and discussed the areas of focus for its question plan. Officers confirmed that the draft question plan would be shared with the Panel before its next meeting on Monday 8th July.	KdC

The Panel asked Officers to include pre- and post- hearing meetings in their calenders.

The Panel received the survey analysis report which had been outsourced to Island Global Research (IGR). The Panel reviewed the report and provided some initial comments. The Panel agreed that this would be published as an appendix to its own report, in due course, and that it would not be released earlier.

The Panel also instructed Officers to draft follow-up letters to teaching unions regarding the review.

KdC/JB

5. Work Permit Holder Welfare Review Panel

The Panel received a verbal update from Deputy Beatriz Porée regarding the status of the Work Permit Holder Welfare Review being undertaken by the Review Panel.

It was noted that the Review Panel had not yet concluded its work, so the Panel agreed that there were no immediate actions for it to action.

6. States Business

The Panel noted the recent letters, reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting.

The Panel noted its approval of Comments on P.40/2024, which was expected to be debated at the States Assembly sitting commencing on 25th June 2024 (if approval for a reduced lodging period was granted). The Chair asked the Officer to confirm that the Comments were included on the consolidated order paper.

The Panel referred to the States of Jersey Police Annual Report 2023 (R.109/2024) which had been presented by the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs on 21st June 2024. The Officer was asked to enquire why the Panel was not provided with the opportunity to read it in advance of it being made public.

KdC

7. Any Other Business

The Panel noted and discussed the following:

• The Panel noted the technical difficulties with the video broadcast of its public hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 19th June 2024. The Chair asked that the video be removed from the States Assembly website unless the sequencing could be fixed. The Officer confirmed that technical support was being sought to review the issue and that a transcript of the hearing would be available after five working days.

• The Panel noted that it had visited the Jersy Field Squadron on 21st June 2024.

• The Panel asked the Officer to follow up with Government regarding its request to visit further primary schools in relation to the school meal delivery programme.

• The Chair informed the Panel about a public talk by independent consultant, Tim Gill, on the subject of "Playful places: how a child friendly approach to planning could transform St Helier for all", which was taking place at the Town Hall later that day (Monday 24th June).

KdC JB

8. Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9.00am on Monday 8th July 2024 in the Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Mark Temple KC, HM Attorney General

Advocate Matthew Berry, Senior Legal Adviser, Law Officer's Department

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing from Law Officers: Permissive Extent Clauses

The Panel met with the Attorney General and the Senior Legal Adviser for a briefing on the subject of permissive extent clauses. This meeting was held in private and, in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exempt Information Article 31, a private record was taken.

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Records of Meetings The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 18th, 19th, 20th (x2), 21st, and 24th June 2024.	JB
2. Work Programme The Panel reviewed its planned work programme for 2024 and noted that it was scheduled to receive the following briefings: • A joint briefing with the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel on Emergency Planning on 12th September; and • A briefing about, and visit to, Skills Jersey and visit to Highlands College on 25th September 2024. The Panel asked Officers to update its work programme with an updated status and new comments on a number of matters. The Panel also reviewed and approved a draft Scoping Document for a standalone hearing on the subject of "Online safety for children in Jersey". The Panel requested that the Officer send it to Scrutiny Liaison Committee (SLC) to approve the budget request. The Panel discussed various matters relating to Children's Social Care and foster carers and asked the Officer to draft a letter to the Minister for Children and Families with the queries discussed.	KdC JB
3. Quarterly Public Hearing The Panel noted its question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, which has now been rescheduled to the 22nd of August 2024. The Panel agreed to look at the updated question plan in its next meeting. The Panel tasked Officers to start working on the question plans for the next Quarterly Public Hearings with the Minister Children and Families hearing and Minister Education and Lifelong Learning. The Panel had a number of topic areas they asked Officers to include in the question plans.	JB

4. Secondary Education Funding Review The Panel noted its hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning in relation to the Secondary Education Funding Review on 10th July 2024 and discussed its question plan and additional research information which had been prepared by Officers.	KdC/JB
5. States Business The Panel noted the recent letters, reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting.
6. Any Other Business The Panel noted and discussed the following: • The Panel agreed that an item be included on the agenda for all future Panel meetings to allow each Panel member to provide a verbal update on matters of interest to the Panel. It was requested that this be included as an early item in the running order at each regular meeting. • The Panel requested its officers to arrange a private briefing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning at a mutually convenient time during the forthcoming week.	KdC
7. Future Meetings The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9.00am on Monday 29th July 2024 in the Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Seán O'Regan, Group Director for CYPES

Anne Homer, Head of Finance Business Partnering, CYPES

Jonathan Williams, Programme Director for Education Reform, CYPES

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Public Hearing for the Scrutiny Panel's Secondary Education Funding Review: questions to the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel noted and discussed its question plan in preparation for the public hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning.

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and various Government Officers for the public hearing at 3:00pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the public hearing, the Panel discussed key topics to include on a social media update with the Communications Officer.

CC (CO)

10.07.2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Seán O'Regan, Group Director for CYPES

Russell Crowe, Head of Treasury and Investment Management, Treasury and Exchequer

Martin Keith, Private Secretary to the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Private briefing from the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel met with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, the Assistant Minister, and officers for a private briefing. This meeting was held in private and, in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Absolutely Exempt Information Article 26, a private record was taken.

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member
Apologies/Absent	Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed Deputy Miles to the Panel, following her appointment on 17th July 2024.
2. Declarations and Conflicts of Interest The Panel noted the declarations and conflicts of interest section of the Scrutiny and Public Accounts Committee Proceedings: Code of Practice. Deputy Curtis advised that her declarations were unchanged and noted that she had dependant family members in education. Connétable Labey advised that his declarations were unchanged and noted that he was a shareholder in a company, operated by his spouse, that provided day care services for children. Deputy Miles declared that she undertook ad-hoc employment as a lecturer for the Institute of Law in Jersey and, also, that a family member was a teacher in a local primary school.
3. Records of Meetings The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 27th June, 8th, 10th, 12th July 2024.
4. Secondary Education Funding Review The Panel noted receipt of a letter dated 19th July 2024 from the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning in relation to the Secondary Education Funding Review. The Panel discussed a number of points in relation to the response and asked the Officer to research a number of points and prepare follow up correspondence to the Minister, if required. The Panel noted receipt of a written submission from the Policy Centre Jersey. Deputy Curtis highlighted a quote used in the survey response report prepared by Island Global Research and asked that an adaption was made to this, to ensure that there was no risk of identifying the individual quoted.	KdC

5. Government Plan Review 2025-2028 It was anticipated that the Proposed Government Plan 2025-2028 would be lodged by the Council of Ministers on Tuesday 30th July 2024. It was noted that Panel Officers would prepare a briefing paper for the Panel on the proposed scrutiny approach and to highlight the content that was particularly relevant to the Panel. The Panel asked the Officer to schedule public review hearings in anticipation of a Panel review of the lodged proposition.	KdC
6. Online Safety for Children in Jersey The Panel noted that it was scheduled to hold a public hearing with the Minister for Children and Families, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development on 12th September 2024 and discussed the topic areas for its draft question plan. The Panel asked the Officer to compile its draft question plan for detailed discussion at the next Panel meeting.	KdC
7. Children's Social Care The Panel noted receipt of a letter from the Minister for Children and Families, dated 18th July 2024, which responded to queries that the Panel had sent in writing about Children's Social Care and Fostering. The Panel highlighted a number of points to follow up on, particularly relating to the status of policies in Children's Social Care. In order to inform further work, as a possible comparable, the Panel suggested that it research the provision of social work by the Jersey Family Court Advisory Service (JFCAS). The Panel noted that it had a private briefing on Children's Social Care scheduled for 4th September 2024 and would use this to make its initial follow up queries. The Panel agreed to hold a public hearing focussed on the subject of Foster Care with the Minister for Children and Families. Following consideration of its work programme, the Panel asked the Officer to make arrangements for the hearing to take place in November 2024.	KdC
8. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel noted its draft question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, scheduled for 22nd of August 2024. The Panel suggested a number of updates to questions and new additions. It agreed to approve an updated version of the question plan at its next meeting. The Panel tasked the Officer to commence drafting the question plans for the next Quarterly Public Hearings with the Minister for Children and Families and Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning. The Panel listed topic areas for inclusion in the question plans.	KdC
9. Work Programme The Panel reviewed and noted its planned work programme for 2024.

10. States Business

The Panel noted the recent letters, reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting.

11. Any Other Business

The Panel noted and discussed the following:

• The recent resignation of the Prison Governor at H.M.P La Moye (the Prison). The Panel agreed that it wanted to speak with the outgoing postholder to hear her expert professional opinion on the States of Jersey Prison Service and the impact of Government policy on the Prison's function. Deputy Miles (as Chair of the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel (CSSP)) noted that there could be a crossover of interest with the CSSP and, after discussion, the Panel agreed that it would request a private briefing from the Prison Governor to be provided (before her departure) to representatives from both the Panel and CSSP (suggested as the Chairs and Vice-Chairs).

• Connétable Labey suggested that the Panel collect further information about the updates proposed to the Transgender Guidance for Jersey Schools. The Panel agreed to question the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning about this in its next Quarterly Public Hearing.

12. Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9:00am on Monday 19th August 2024 in the Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Deputy Helen Miles , Member (and Chair of the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel)

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Deputy Lucy Stephenson , Vice-Chair of the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel

Susie Richardson, Prison Governor, H.M. P. La Moye Tom Walker , Assistant Chief Executive, Cabinet Office

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Meeting with the Prison Governor

The Panel, together with representatives from the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel, received Susie Richardson (the Prison Governor) and Tom Walker (the Assistant Chief Executive) for a meeting.

The following Terms of Reference and scope for the meeting was agreed in advance:

Representatives from both the Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel and Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel would like to take the opportunity to hear the Prison Governor's expert professional opinion on the States of Jersey Prison Service before the current postholder departs.

It is requested that the briefing includes:

• What have been the biggest changes made and challenges faced during the Governor's time in post?

• Government policy which impacts the Prison: what is done well and what could be improved?

• Operations and structural organisation: what is done well and what could be improved?

• Funding provided for the Prison: feedback on adequacy for operations and recent capital expenditure.

• Consideration of the adequacy of relationships between the Prison, Government, and other Arm's Length Organisations (where relevant / applicable)

It is specifically noted that the briefing should not include reference to any matters of individual employee grievance.

The meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Absolute Exemption Article 26 and a private record was taken.

All attending States Members thanked the Prison Governor for her time in service for the Island of Jersey.

The Panel thanked the Prison Governor and Assistant Chief Executive for their time and the meeting was concluded.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair (items 1 – 5 only) Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed those present and in attendance to the meeting. Members were provided with the opportunity to bring any matters of interest to the attention of the Panel, and the following was shared: • The Chair advised the Panel that she had recently taken the opportunity to visit the charity Eyecan and briefly shared information about their work supporting Islanders with sight impairment. It was noted that the charity provided financial support for glasses for children up to the age of 12 years old. • The Chair and Deputy Miles also advised that they had visited a private Early Years nursery on 13th August 2024 and had the opportunity to speak with the manager and view the facilities.
2. Records of Meetings The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 29th July 2024.
3. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel discussed and, subject to a few minor amendments, approved its draft question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, scheduled for 22nd of August 2024.
4. Secondary Education Funding Review The Panel noted a document produced by officers which summarised the evidence received and the themes emerging from the review.
5. Review of the Proposed Budget 2025 - 2028 The Panel noted that the Government had lodged its Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028 (P.51/2024), formerly known as the Government Plan, on 2nd August 2024 (the Budget') and that the Annex to the Budget had also been presented as R.133/2024. The Panel reviewed a briefing paper prepared by officers in respect of the proposed approach across Scrutiny Panels to the review. It had been agreed by the Scrutiny Liaison Committee that each Scrutiny Panel would focus on the aspects of the Budget specific to its remit and that overarching themes would be led by the

Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel. The Panel noted a list of projects and programmes which were relevant to the Panel's remit and highlighted where it would focus its scrutiny. The Panel asked the officers to finalise arrangements for public hearings with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and the Minister for Children and Families and take preparatory action for public engagement including, if possible, a video to promote the Budget review and an outreach visit to a school. The Panel discussed and, subject to a few minor amendments, approved the draft Terms of Reference, the draft Scoping Document and the draft Digital and Public Engagement Plan. The Panel requested that the Officer send the documents to the Scrutiny Liaison Committee to approve the budget request.	KdC Ch.C
6. Online Safety for Children in Jersey The Panel noted that it was scheduled to hold a public hearing with the Minister for Children and Families, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development on 12th September 2024. The Panel discussed a first draft of its question plan and asked the officer to make a number of updates. The Panel agreed to discuss an updated version at its meeting on 2nd September.	KdC
7. Fostering in Jersey The Panel reviewed and approved a draft Scoping Document for a standalone hearing on the subject of "Foster Care in Jersey". The Panel requested that the Officer send it to the Scrutiny Liaison Committee to approve the budget request.	KdC
8. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families The Panel noted that it was due to hold its next quarterly public hearing with the Minister for Children and Families on 18th September 2024 and discussed the list of topics and questions to put to the Minister. The Panel asked the officer to update the draft question plan and agreed to review an updated version at its next meeting.	KdC
9. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning The Panel noted that it was due to hold its next quarterly public hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 19th September 2024 and discussed the list of topics and questions to put to the Minister. The Panel asked the officer to update the draft question plan and agreed to review an updated version at its next meeting.	KdC
10. Work Programme The Panel reviewed and noted its planned work programme for 2024. With reference to the Panel's non-review work on the matter of Children's Social Care, the Panel indicated that it would like to meet with the Chief Executive Officer of the charity Brightly and asked the officer to extend an invitation and, if suitable, make arrangements for a meeting. The Panel also noted the private briefing that it had received on 12th July 2024 and asked the officer to schedule an update meeting for the Panel in January 2025.	KdC KdC

11. States Business

The Panel noted the recent letters, reports and Ministerial Decisions that had been shared with the Panel and added to its Microsoft Teams folder since the previous meeting.

12. Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9:00am on Monday 2nd September 2024 in the Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Date: 22nd August 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

Kate Briden, Chief Officer, Justice and Home Affairs

Robin Smith, Chief Officer, States of Jersey Police

Mark Cockerham, Head of Service, Jersey Customs and Immigration Service

Nathan Fox, Associate Director, Justice Policy, Cabinet Office

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

The Panel noted and discussed its question plan in preparation for the Public Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs.

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 2:00 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed key topics to include on a social media update with the Communications Officer.

Date: 4th September 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Apologies

Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families Donna Marriot, Director of Children's Services, Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES)

Abbie Moore , Private Secretary, Minister for Children and Families

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Private Briefing: Children's Social Care

The Panel welcomed the Minister, Assistant Minister and Officers to a private briefing about Children's Social Care and the Children's Services Improvement Plan.

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

Date: 12th September 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Deputy Helen Miles , Member (also attending as Chair of the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel)

In attendance

Deputy Lucy Stephenson , Vice-Chair, Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel (Item 1 only)

Deputy Max Andrews , Member, Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel (Item 1 only)

Deputy Alex Curtis , Member, Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel (Item 1 only)

Deputy Jonathan Renouf , Member, Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel (Item 1 only)

Kate Briden, Chief Officer, Justice and Home Affairs (Item 1 only)

Paul Brown, Chief Fire Officer, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service Kevin Murphy, Channel Islands Emergency Planning Officer, Justice and Home Affairs

Nathan Fox, Associate Director, Justice Policy, Cabinet Office

Monique Magalhaes , Principal Committee and Panel Officer (Item 1 only) Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Bridgit Siddall, Research and Project Officer (Item 1 only)

Agenda matter

Action

1. Briefing: Emergency Planning and Resilience

The Panel and members of the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel (CSSP) met to receive a joint briefing from Government Officers about the development of a Resilience policy and strategy and, also, possible changes to resilience legislation in future. Government Officers advised the Panel and CSSP that work was underway, but this was an early presentation of the progress so far.

This meeting was held in private and, in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exempt Information Article 35, a private record was taken.

The Panel and attendees from CSSP thanked the Government Officers for their time and the briefing concluded.

2. Records of Meetings

The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 13th and 19th August 2024.

3. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Subject to minor updates and additions, the Panel approved its draft question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, scheduled for Thursday 19th September 2024.

4. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families

The Panel noted that its next scheduled quarterly public hearing with the Minister for Children and Families had been rescheduled from Wednesday 18th September 2024 to Monday 14th October 2024.

Subject to minor updates and additions, the Panel approved its draft question plan for the hearing on 14th October 2024 but agreed to review it again closer to the hearing date.

5. Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9:00am on Monday 23rd September 2024 in the Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel

Record of Meeting

Date: 18th September 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member
In attendance	Steve Harvey, Chief Executive, Brightly Jersey Janice Hales , Research and Project Officer Justine Lepp, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Meeting with Steve Harvey of Brightly Jersey

The Panel welcomed Steve Harvey, Chief Executive of Brightly Jersey to a meeting to discuss Corporate Parenting and concerns that Brightly had been experiencing regarding funding for care leavers.

A private detailed file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

18.09.2024

Date: 19th September 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Robert Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Keith Posner - Director of Improvement and Transformation (covering Chief Officer leave)

Seán O'Regan – Group Director of Education

Jonathan Williams – Business Change Director

Janice Hales , Research and Project Officer Justine Lepp, Research and Project Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Discussion of Question Plan The Panel discussed its question plan and agreed the allocated areas assigned to each member.
2. Public Hearing with Chief Minister The Panel welcomed Deputy Robert Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and Government Officers to a Quarterly Public Hearing. The proceedings were streamed live to the public and a recording was taken so that a written transcript could be produced.
3. Post Hearing Discussion The Panel discussed areas from the hearing and agreed with the Communications Officer that these be circulated on social media. The Panel also noted a number of follow up questions and it was agreed these would be sent in the form of a written letter to the Minister once the transcript had been received.

Date: 23rd September 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer [items 1 – 3] Janice Hales , Research and Project Officer

Justine Lepp, Research and Project Officer

Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed the Panel and asked for any matters of interest to be brought to the attention of the Panel. The Chair informed that she had met with the Chief of Police recently and would use some of the information from that meeting to help formulate questions for the upcoming public hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs which would be discussed later in the meeting. The Chair also informed that she had attended a visit to Highlands with Deputy Porée and Springfield School with the Vice Chair. Deputy Miles informed the Panel that she had lodged a question to be asked at the sitting of the States Assembly on post graduate funding.
2. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the record of the meeting held on 12th September 2024.
3. Review: Secondary Education Funding The Panel received a verbal update from the Committee and Panel Officer (CPO) on the status of the review and discussed the draft Heads of Report (HoR). It was explained that the HoR was a guide as to the content of the report and could be modified. The Panel approved the HoR as drafted. The CPO explained that drafting was ongoing, and it was hoped a first draft of the report could be circulated by the end of the week. The Panel discussed areas where it believed recommendations could be made following the evidence received and agreed that these would be discussed in more detail following its review of the first draft.	KdeC
4. Budget 2025 – 2028 (Government Plan) The Panel received a verbal update from the Research and Project Officer (RPO) on the status of the review and was informed that one written submission had been received. The Panel noted receipt of a letter from the Minister for Children and Families and the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning dated 6th September 2024 and receipt of a letter from the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs dated 16th September 2024. The Panel agreed that further questioning would be required based on the responses from those letters and those further questions be formulated as part of the question plans for the upcoming hearings with each of the Ministers. The Panel also agreed that the absence of some of the business cases, together with missing information on some of the received business cases should also formulate some of the areas of questioning.	JH/JL

5. Comments: Nationality Acts: Extension to Jersey' (P.55/2024) To Panel considered the draft comments paper in relation to the proposition and agreed some minor changes. It was informed that the draft comments were with the Law Officers Department for fact checking and should there be any additional changes, those would be circulated to the Panel for further consideration.	JH/JL
6. Comments: Draft Family Division Registrar (Change of Status and Title (Jersey) Law 202-' (P.56/2024) The Panel noted the comments paper and agreed it would review them in more detail before approval.	KdeC
7. Public Hearing: Online Safety for Children in Jersey' The Panel noted its upcoming standalone public hearing with the Minister for Children and Families, the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development on 4th October 2024 and agreed its draft question plan. It was further agreed that once the question plan was reviewed in more detail, areas of questioning could be allocated to each Panel member.	JL
8. Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel noted its upcoming quarterly public hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs on 9th October 2024 and discussed topics to include within its draft question plan. Its discussion included the following areas: • Attacks on front line staff • Justice Policy • Youth Justice Policy • Article 36, Mental Health Jersey Law • Corporate Parenting Board • Work Permit Review It was agreed that a draft question plan be circulated for consideration by the end of the week.	JL
9. Work Programme To Panel noted its current work programme and agreed that due to its workload, the topic on Fostering Care be moved to early 2025.	KdeC
10. States Business To Panel considered items of business for forthcoming States meetings and agreed that no Panel questions or comments be required at that stage.
11. Any Other Business The Panel noted there was no other business to discuss.
12. Future Meetings The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9.00 am on Monday 7th October 2024 in Le Capelain Room of the States Building.

Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel

Record of Meeting

Date: 25th September 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Apologies

Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Robert Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Stuart Penn, Assistant Manager, Children, Young People, Education and Skills

Jo Terry-Marchant, Principal, Education Highlands

Justine Lepp, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Skills Jersey Briefing

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and Government Officers to a briefing to be informed about the collaborative work that Skills Jersey and Highlands College were undertaking.

A private detailed file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

25.09.2024

Date: 2nd October 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Educational Psychologist Representatives

Morag Farley, Association of Educational Psychologists Cath Lowther, Association of Educational Psychologists

Justine Lepp, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

Meeting to discuss Jersey's Educational Psychology Service

The Panel welcomed representatives from the Association of Educational Psychologists to the meeting.

A private file note was made of the meeting, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 (information supplied in confidence) of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

02.10.2024

Date: 4th October 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Kirsten Morel , Minister for Sustainable Economic Development

Elisabeth Blampied – Senior Policy Officer, Department for the Economy Christoph Riedmann Policy Officer - Economy Department

Charley Hacquoil – Criminal Justice Policy, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance

Andrew Heaven – Assistant Director Policy – Children Young People and Education Services (CYPES)

Keith Posner - Director of Improvement and Transformation, Education Janice Hales , Research and Project Officer

Justine Lepp, Research and Project Officer

Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Discussion of Question Plan The Panel discussed its question plan and agreed the allocated areas assigned to each member.
2. Public Hearing with Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Minister for Children and Families and Minister for Sustainable and Economic Development on Online Safety for Children in Jersey The Panel welcomed Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families, Deputy Kirsten Morel , Minister for Sustainable Economic Development and Government Officers to a Public Hearing on Online Safety for Children in Jersey. The proceedings were streamed live to the public and a recording was taken so that a written transcript could be produced.
3. Post Hearing Discussion The Panel discussed areas raised during the hearing and requested that the Communications Officer draft a social media post for circulation on the agreed topics. The Panel also noted a number of follow up questions and it was agreed that those would be sent in the form of a written letter to the Minister once the transcript had been received.	CC JH

Date: 23rd September 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Janice Hales , Research and Project Officer

Justine Lepp, Research and Project Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed those present and asked for any matters of interest to be brought to the attention of the Panel. The Panel discussed the Educational Psychology Service and agreed to ask Government whether any report had been produced which had highlighted concerns relating to the delivery of the Educational Psychology Service.	KdeC
2. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on 12th,19th and 23rd September 2024.
3. Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel discussed its upcoming quarterly public hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs on 9th October 2024 and agreed the question plan.
4. Review of the Proposed Budget 2025-2028 The Panel discussed its review of the Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028 and areas of questioning for its upcoming public hearings with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs on 9th October, the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 11th October and the Minister for Children and Families on 16th October 2024. The Panel added additional areas of questioning to the question plans received, noting it had yet to receive a question plan for the Minister for Children and Families which would be circulated in due course. It was agreed that revised question plans be circulated for consideration. The Panel discussed submissions received from stakeholders regarding its review and was informed that whilst the deadline for submissions had passed, some stakeholders had asked for an extension to the deadline which the Panel accommodated. The Panel discussed possible Amendments and it was agreed that the Committee and Panel Officer liaise with Members Resource Services and ask for further clarification regarding funding for the possible Amendments.	KdeC KdeC

5. Review: Secondary Education Funding

The Panel received a verbal update from the Committee and Panel Officer (CPO) on the status of the review and was informed that a draft Scrutiny Report would be circulated by the end of the week for Panel consideration following it going through internal quality assurance procedures.

KdeC

6. Comments: Draft Family Division Registrar (Change of Status and Title (Jersey) Law 202-' (P.56/2024)

The Panel considered and approved a Comments Paper in relation to the proposition and asked that this be lodged Au Greffe as soon as possible.

KdeC

7. Work Programme

The Panel noted its work programme and requested a briefing be arranged from the fostering team. The Draft Police Complaints Regulations which were due to be lodged by the end of 2024 were discussed and the Panel agreed it would consider its approach regarding undertaking further work on this topic.

The Panel discussed the recent public hearing held on Online Safety for Children in Jersey and discussed the possibility for a review on that topic in early 2025. It was agreed that a Scoping Document be circulated in December for further consideration in January 2025.

The Panel discussed dates for its scheduled meetings for 2025 and agreed that it would continue with Monday morning, however, noted that this may involve clashes with the Comité de Connétable (CdeC) monthly meetings. It was agreed that a schedule of the CdeC meetings be requested and the meeting dates arranged in line with those.

The Panel agreed it would review its work programme in more detail in January 2025.

KdeC

8. States Business

The Panel considered items of business for forthcoming States meetings. The Panel discussed a Ministerial Decision from the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs regarding the Police Negotiation Board and asked that clarification be sought on the members of that board.

KdeC

9. Any Other Business

The Panel discussed information being given to the media by Government before it had been received by States Members. It was agreed that the matter would be discussed further at the Scrutiny Liaison Committee (SLC).

10. Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9.00 am on Monday 21st October 2024 in the Le Capelain Room of the States Building.

Date: 9th October 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

Kate Briden, Chief Officer of Justice and Home Affairs

Robin Smith, Chief Officer, States of Jersey Police

Nathan Fox, Associate Director, Justice Policy, Cabinet Office

Mark Cockerham, Head of Service, Jersey Customs and Immigration Service

Paul Brown, Chief Fire Officer, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service Peter Gavey, Chief Ambulance Officer, States of Jersey Ambulance Service

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer [online] Sarah Hopkins, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Discussion of Question Plan The Panel discussed both its question plans and agreed the allocated areas assigned to each member.
2. Public Hearing with Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel welcomed Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and Government Officers to a Quarterly Public Hearing. The proceedings were streamed live to the public and a recording was taken so that a written transcript could be produced.
3. Public Hearing for the review of the Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028 with Minister for Justice and Home Affairs The Panel welcomed Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and Government Officers to a Budget Public Hearing. The proceedings were streamed live to the public and a recording was taken so that a written transcript could be produced.
4. Post Hearing Discussion The Panel discussed areas from both hearings and agreed with the Communications Officer the highlights to share on social media. The Panel also noted a number of follow up questions and it was agreed these would be sent in the form of a written letter to the Minister once the transcript had been received.

Date: 11th October 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Robert Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Keith Posner – Director of Improvement and Transformation, Department for Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Seán O'Regan – Group Director of Education, CYPES

Anne Homer – Head of Finance Business Partnering, CYPES

Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Gwyn Garfield-Bennett, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Public Hearing for the Review of the Proposed Budget 2025-2028: Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and various Government Officers for a Public Hearing at 2.30 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed and agreed the key topics to include on any media updates with the Communications Officer.

Date: 14th October 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Donna Marriot, Director of Children's Services, CYPES

Darren Bowring, Associate Director, CAMHS, Mental Health and Wellbeing, CYPES

Keith Posner, Director for Improvement and Transformation, CYPES Michelle Clark, Senior Policy Officer, CYPES

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Children and Families

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Children and Families, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 2.30 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed and agreed key topics to include on any media updates with the Communications Officer.

Date: 16th October 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families

Rob Sainsbury, Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Donna Marriot, Director of Children's Services, CYPES

Keith Posner, Director for Improvement and Transformation, CYPES Anne Homer, Head of Finance Business Partnering, CYPES

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Emily Thomas, Campaign Manager (acting as Communications Officer)

Agenda matter

Action

1. Public Hearing for the Review of the Proposed Budget 2025-2028: Minister for Children and Families

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Children and Families, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Public Hearing at 3 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed and agreed key topics to include on any media updates with the Communications Officer.

Date: 21st October 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member
Apologies	Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer [Items 1 – 4]

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed those in attendance and asked for any matters of interest to be brought to the attention of the Panel. The Panel noted receipt of a letter from the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 7th of October, which was a follow up to a public hearing on 18th September. The Panel asked officers to contact the Minister regarding some of the answers received. The Panel discussed information about the play strategy which had been provided to them in a recent public hearing with the Minister for Children and Families.	KdC
2. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on 18th, 25th September and 4th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 14th, 16th October 2024. The Panel asked for minor amendments to its minutes from 7th October 2024 and agreed to approve these electronically following the meeting.
3. Review of the Proposed Budget 2025-2028 The Panel discussed its review of the Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028 (Budget Review') and agreed that, in due course, it would aim to publish a comments paper to present its findings. The Panel also approved the draft wording for two amendments and tasked Officers to draft the accompanying reports. The Panel agreed to review and approve the draft Amendments at its meeting on 4th November 2024. The Panel agreed to write to the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning for some further information as part of its Budget Review. The Panel noted that it was due to visit Mont à L'Abbé School on Thursday 24th October (subject to the conclusion of the States Assembly sitting) as part of its Budget Review.	KdC

4. Review: Secondary Education Funding The Panel discussed the draft report for its Secondary Education Funding Review and approved its findings and recommendations, subject to various minor amendments. The Panel agreed to review and approve the next version of the report electronically, once officers had made the requested changes.	KdC
5. Work Programme The Panel reviewed and noted its planned work programme for 2024. The Panel agreed it would review its work programme in more detail in January 2025.	KdC
6. States Business The Panel considered items of business for forthcoming States Assembly meetings. The Panel discussed Ministerial Decisions and requested Officers look at the filing structure used on Teams for sharing these with the Panel.	JB
7. Any Other Business The Panel asked its officers to contact the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning's Private Secretary with queries about: • The list of provided schools in schedule 1 of the Education (Jersey) Law 1999; and • For follow up information to the Panel's private meeting with the Minister on 12th July 2024.	KdC
8. Future Meetings The Panel discussed proposed dates for its meetings in 2025. The Panel agreed to continue scheduling meetings on a Monday morning, however, noted that this may involve clashes with the Comité des Connétable s (CdeC) monthly meetings. The Panel approved the schedule of dates for meetings in 2025 and agreed that it could be revisited if there were lots of clashes with the CdeC. The Panel asked officers to circulate diary invites. The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9:00am on Monday 4th November 2024 in the Le Capelain Room of the States Building. Deputy Helen Miles provided her apologies for the meeting on Monday 4th November 2024.

Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel

Record of Meeting

Date: 29th October 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Deputy Robert Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Jane Lancaster-Adlam, Interim Associate Director of Education, Children, Young People, Education and Skills Department

Seán O'Regan, Group Director of Education, Children, Young People, Education and Skills Department

Martin Keith, Private Secretary to the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, Children, Young People, Education and Skills Department

Katherine De Carteret , Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Educational Psychology Service Briefing

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and Government Officers to a briefing on the security of delivery of the Educational Psychology Service and the relevant policies in place.

A private detailed file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

29.10.2024

Date: 4th November 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
Apologies	Deputy Helen Miles , Member
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed those in attendance and asked for any matters of interest to be brought to the attention of the Panel. The Panel discussed excessive noise generated by modified engines and whether its enforcement would fall under its Home Affair's remit. The Panel tasked Officers to produce a briefing paper on the topic to inform the Panel's next steps. The Chair advised that she had arranged some meetings where the subject matter could become relevant to the Panel's interest of student finance. The Panel agreed that one of its Officers should be present to take notes on relevant matters.	JB KdC
2. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on 22nd August, 19th September and 2nd, 7th (amended since previous meeting) and 21st October 2024.
3. Review of the Proposed Budget 2025-2028 The Panel noted and discussed the responses it received from the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 30th and 31st October 2024 and highlighted a number of points that it wished to include in the reports to its Amendments and Comments Paper. The Panel received an Officer update on the Amendments and highlighted that they had been slightly changed based on the Panel's comments from the previous meeting. The Panel tasked Officers to make some further minor changes to the Amendments. Officers informed the Panel that the Amendments would be ready for the Panel to review within the week, and that approval would be sought online, which the Panel agreed to. The Panel noted that the visit to Mont à L'Abbé school had been rescheduled to 20th November 2024.	KdC

4. Review: Secondary Education Funding

The Panel discussed the draft Report for its Secondary Education Funding review, which had been updated by Officers as requested by the Panel. The Panel agreed that it would aim to publish the Report in early December 2024 and asked the Officer to undertake the fact checking process and prepare a final version for its approval.

KdC

5. Quarterly Hearings

The Panel noted its upcoming quarterly public hearings with the Minister for Children and Families on 22nd November 2024 and Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 6th December 2024.

The Panel discussed topics to include within both of its question plans and asked Officers to prepare drafts for circulation. The question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Children and Families would be approved electronically and the question plan for the hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning would be tabled for further discussion at the Panel meeting on 25th November 2024.

6. Work Programme

The Panel reviewed and noted its planned work programme for the remainder of 2024 and the beginning of 2025.

KdC

7. States Business

The Panel considered items of business for forthcoming States Assembly meetings. The Panel discussed Ministerial Decisions (MDs) and Officers confirmed that the Microsoft Teams file structure for MDs would be reorganised, as per the request at the previous Panel meeting.

8. Any Other Business

The Panel discussed some specific feedback received on social media following its previous quarterly hearings and agreed for a member of the Panel to follow up with the specific organisation.

The Panel discussed discussion topics and questions for its upcoming meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of Jersey Cares on 14th November 2024.

KdC

9. Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9am on Monday 25th November 2024 in the Le Capelain Room of the States Building.

Meeting held by electronic mail

Date: 7th November 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member
Absent	Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028

The Panel considered and approved its draft Amendment to the Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028 (P.51-2024) regarding apprenticeship support.

The Panel approved that its Amendment be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the Officer to make the relevant arrangements.

KdC

Meeting held by electronic mail

Date: 11th November 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member
Absent	Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028

The Panel considered and approved its draft Amendments to the Proposed Budget 2025 – 2028 (P.51-2024) regarding Highlands College repairs.

The Panel approved that its Amendment be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the Officer to make the relevant arrangements.

KdC

Date: 14th November 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Carly Glover, CEO of Jersey Cares

Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Private meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of Jersey Cares

The Panel welcomed Carly Glover, Chief Executive Officer of Jersey Cares, to a private meeting. A variety of matters were discussed, including Children's Social Care, the Corporate Parenting Board and support available for Care Leavers.

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

Date: 20th November 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Connétable Richard Vibert , Assistant Minster Justice and Home Affairs Kate Briden, Chief Officer, Justice and Home Affairs

Cirsty De Gruchy Moseley, Justice and Building a Safer Community Coordinator, Justice and Home Affairs

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Private Briefing to the Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel: Youth Justice Strategy

The Panel welcomed Connétable Richard Vibert , Assistant Minster for Justice and Home Affairs, Kate Briden, Chief Officer for Justice and Home Affairs, and Cirsty De Gruchy Moseley, Justice and Building a Safer Community Coordinator, to a private briefing on the Youth Justice Strategy.

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

Meeting held by electronic mail

Date: 21st November 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member
Absent	Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Proposed Budget (Government Plan) 2025-2028 [P.51/2024]

The Panel considered and approved its draft Comments Paper on the Proposed Budget (Government Plan) 2025-2028 (P.51/2024).

The Panel approved that its Comments Paper be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the Officer to make relevant arrangements.

KdC

21.11.2024

Date: 22nd November 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Item 1 only:

Belinda Lewis , Chair of Jersey Early Years Association (JEYA)

Paul Bourke, Committee Member of JEYA

Martyn Farley, Committee Member of JEYA

Cheryl Findlay, Committee Member of JEYA

Christina Jandron, representative of Jersey Association of Child Carers (JACC)

Item 2 only:

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families

Keith Posner, Acting Chief Officer of Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES)

Donna Marriot, Director of Children's Services, CYPES

Anne Homer, Head of Finance Business Partnering, CYPES

Ben Sandeman, Head of Policy, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance

All:

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Private meeting with representatives from JEYA and Jersey Association of Child Carers (JACC) The Panel welcomed all attendees from JEYA and JACC to the meeting. Connétable Mark Labey noted his declared conflict of interests relating to the JACC. A private file note was made of the meeting, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 (information supplied in confidence) of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).
2. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Children and Families The Panel welcomed the Minister for Children and Families, the Assistant Minister, and various Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 2:00 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced. Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed and agreed key topics to include on any media updates with the Communications Officer.	CC
3. Agreement to withdraw Amendment to Proposed Budget 2025-2028

Following receipt of the Council of Minister's draft Comments on the Panel's Amendment to the Proposed Budget 2025–2028 which related to funding to repair the estate at Highlands College [P.51 Amd.15] the Panel agreed to withdraw Amendment 15 based on the assurances that funding would be provided from another source to make essential repairs in 2025. The Panel asked Officers to notify the Greffier of the decision ahead of the States Assembly debate on the Proposed Budget.

KdC

Date: 25th November 2024

Present	Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
Apologies	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair
In attendance	Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Vice Chair welcomed those in attendance and asked for any matters of interest to be brought to the attention of the Panel. The Panel discussed the various meetings and briefings from the previous week. The Panel asked Officers to follow up with the Jersey Early Years Association. The Panel also discussed the possibility for a separate 45-minute hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on Early Years in 2025. The Panel agreed to use the first quarterly hearing with the Minister to ask about Early Years with the potential for following up further based on the output from that hearing.	KdC
2. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on 29th October and 4th, 7th and 11th November 2024.
3. Review of the Proposed Budget 2025-2028 The Panel was pleased that its two Amendments were accepted by the Council of Ministers and asked Officers to draft a letter to follow up with the relevant Ministers in respect of the Panel's findings and recommendations as reflected within the Panel's Comments Paper regarding its review of the Budget report.	JB
4. Review: Secondary Education Funding The Panel discussed the draft report for its Secondary Education Funding Review and approved its findings and recommendations, subject to various minor amendments. The Panel agreed to review and approve the next version of the report electronically, once Officers had made the requested changes.	KdC
5. Quarterly Hearing with Minster for Lifelong Learning The Panel noted its quarterly public hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning on 6th December 2024 and asked Officers to update the question plan and agreed to review and approve it electronically once Officers had made the requested changes.	KdC

6. Work Programme The Panel reviewed and noted its planned work programme for 2024 and 2025. The Panel asked Officers to add a visit to Highlands to the Work Programme for mid- 2025.	KdC
7. States Business The Panel considered items of business for forthcoming States Assembly meetings. The Panel discussed Ministerial Decisions and noted the new filing structure prepared by Officers on Teams.	JB
8. Any Other Business Officers advised the Panel that the Briefing Paper on noise was to be shared with the Panel once a final proofread had been completed.	JB
9. Future Meetings The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9:00am on Monday 16th December 2024 in Meeting Room one of the States Building. Connétable Mark Labey provided his apologies for the meeting on Monday 16th December 2024.

Meeting held by electronic mail

Date: 3rd December 2024

Present	Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member
Absent	Deputy Helen Miles , Member
In attendance	Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1. Electronic meeting: Secondary Education Funding Report

The Panel considered and approved its Secondary Education Funding Report in relation to its Secondary Education Funding Review.

The Panel agreed that its Report be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the Officer to make the relevant arrangements.

Date: 6th December 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

In attendance

Item 1

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families Abbie Moore , Private Secretary, Minister for Children and Families Andrew Heaven, Head of Policy, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance

Lizzie Arthur, Policy officer, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance

Item 2

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning Seán O'Regan, Director of Education, Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES)

Jonathan Williams, Business Change Director, Information Services Tania Jackson , Policy Officer, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance

Keith Posner, Interim Chief Officer, CYPES [Items 1-2]

Joseph Brannigan, Research and Project Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer [Item 2 only]

Agenda matter

Action

1. Private Briefing: Independent Advocacy Regulations for Children and Young People

The Panel welcomed Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families, Deputy Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families, Abbie Moore , Private Secretary, Minister for Children and Families, Keith Posner, Interim Chief Officer, Andrew Heaven, Head of Policy, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance, and Lizzie Arthur, Policy Officer, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance, to a private briefing on the Independent Advocacy Regulations for Children and Young People.

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 35 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).

2. Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, the Assistant Minister, and Government Officers for a Quarterly Public Hearing at 12:30pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the Public Hearing, the Panel discussed and agreed key topics to include in a social media update with the Communications Officer.

Date: 16th December 2024

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Beatriz Porée , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Nicola Looby, representing Jersey Foster Carer Association (item 6 only) William Byrne, representing Jersey Foster Carer Association (item 6 only)

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Charlotte Curry, Communications Officer

Agenda matter	Action
1. Opening Remarks The Chair welcomed those in attendance and asked for any matters of interest to be brought to the attention of the Panel. The Panel noted the publication of its review of Secondary Education Funding on Monday 9th December 2024 and the Chair provided an update on some feedback she had received to date. The Panel was advised that Policy Centre Jersey, who had contributed to the Panel's review, had indicated they would provide engagement feedback to the Panel. The Panel was advised that the Scrutiny Liaison Committee (SLC) had discussed a possible Review Panel, to be led by Deputy L. Doublet , to consider family friendly legislation. However, the Review Panel was not yet established, and the Chair had asked for further clarification about where there could be potential for overlapping areas of interest with the Panel's remit. The Chair undertook to speak with Deputy L. Doublet about specifically what the Review Panel would examine. It was noted that a meeting between the Chairs, with support from Panel Officers, could be arranged for further discussion. Deputy Beatriz Porée advised the Panel that she had been invited to join the Review Panel, if it was formed.
2. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on 14th, 20th, 21st, 25th November and 3rd and 6th of December 2024, subject to one minor amendment on the minute from 25th November.	KdC
3. Correspondence from Jersey Cares The Panel discussed correspondence received from Jersey Cares on 22nd November 2024. The Panel requested that Officers check if the letter could be made public. The Panel agreed to follow up on some of the matters further as part of the quarterly public hearing scheduled for 29th January 2024.	KdC
4. Work Programme The Panel reviewed and noted its planned work programme for 2025.

5. States Business The Panel considered items of business for forthcoming States Assembly meetings.
6. Private meeting with representatives from the Jersey Foster Carer Association The Panel welcomed Nicola Looby and William Byrne, representatives of the Jersey Foster Carer Association, to a private meeting to discuss their experience of being foster carers in Jersey. A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended).
7. Any Other Business Further to the Panel's request for its Officers to draft Terms of Reference and Scoping Document for a potential review related to online safety for children in Jersey, the Committee and Panel Officer confirmed that this was in progress and that draft documents would be circulated to the Panel on Teams during the course of the week.	KdC
8. Future Meetings The Panel noted that its next scheduled private meeting would take place at 9:00am on Monday 20th January 2025 in the Le Capelain Room of the States Building.

Approved Panel Minutes - Children, Education and Home Affairs - 2024