Radical move proposed for schools

Five million pounds could be spent bringing in outside help to raise standards in Bristol's schools.

A recommendation, which follows a month of consultations with head teachers and governors, is being put to Bristol City Council's cabinet later this week.

A report said while standards have improved, the process was too slow and targets would not be met unless an external partner was brought in.

If approved, 114 council staff would be transferred to the outside firm.

The partner would be charged with improving standards, providing expertise and working with schools to understand the needs of children and parents.

Poorest performing

It is one of three options being put forward, but it is the choice being recommended to the cabinet when it meets on Thursday.

Bristol's secondary schools have been among the poorest performing in England.

Councillor Peter Hammond said: "For the sake of children, young people and families in our city, we need to secure a rapid and irreversible rise in school standards in Bristol.

"While there have been improvements in attainment over the last ten years, progress has not been fast enough.

"This review is a chance for us to make a real difference and we need to be open-minded about the options for running school improvement services."