Kirsty Williams, Minister for Education
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
I am today publishing our response to the Children’s Commissioner for Wales’ Review of the Welsh Government’s exercise of its functions. The Review contains a series of recommendations and our response provides information about the actions we have already taken or intend to take. I am pleased we are able to accept or accept in principle the majority of the recommendations.
The Government agrees that there is a need for reform in the policy and legislative framework for Elective Home Education (EHE). I believe that the work carried out to date provides a solid foundation for future work in this area. Whilst we are unable make a commitment for a future Government, it would be this government’s intention to implement the reforms in relation to EHE that we set out for delivery before the onset of the pandemic.
It is our aspiration to effect changes to legislation, which strengthens safeguarding measures within independent school settings. However, it will be for the next Government to determine how that particular policy and legislation is progressed.
The Welsh Government remains committed to ensuring children and young people receive a suitable education, and that that all children in Wales are given the chance to thrive and fulfil their potential.