Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Children’s Services on the proposal to transfer selected Education Support Services operating as Inspire to Learn into ip&e Ltd.

(a)  That it be agreed that on a phased basis as detailed in Appendix B of the report, the following services currently delivered by Shropshire Council will be delivered in full (or part) by ip&e Ltd under an Enabling Services Contract to the end of March 2016 while consideration is given to a new operating model : School Library Services, Shropshire Music Service, School Financial Services, Schools IT Support Services, Education Access Services, Information Advice and Guidance and Governor Services, subject to completion of staff consultation.

(b)  That authority be delegated to the Director of Children’s Services in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services to agree the terms of the Enabling Services Contract with ip&e Ltd, including the specification of the service to be commissioned by Shropshire Council and the outcomes to be achieved from the enabling services being commissioned.

(c)  That authority be delegated to the Director of Childrens Services in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services to second staff currently employed in the delivery of services during the period of the Enabling Services contract.