Agenda item

Requests to speak at the Committee on a matter within its terms of reference must be made in writing to the clerk named on the front of this agenda by 5pm two working days before the meeting.

The Chair stated that two deputations would be presented to the Committee which would be considered in turn.

Dana Klopot presented their deputation statement, on the topic of AI technologies and SEND support, included within the supplementary agenda (pages 3-4).

The Chair thanked the deputees for their presentation and invited questions and comments from the Committee. The following was discussed:

·       A Member expressed interest in the potential of AI, but raised concern over a possible increasing administrative burden on staff, given reduced capacity in recent years. They noted that SEND needs in Camden were highly intersectional and questioned whether AI solutions would fairly apply, because some demographic groups already underserved were often failed in AI models due to the lack of data and recognition. In response, the deputee confirmed the aim was to create AI applications that benefitted every individual, both in Camden and globally. They emphasised that AI could support day-to-day needs by analysing patterns and providing timely resources, which could currently take years to access. The AI technology was scalable, affordable, and highly efficient.

·       A Member asked for clarification on how an AI system would work, specifically integrating into current systems and its ability to identify early signs of neurodivergence. In response, the deputee explained that the technology could identify signs of neurodivergence as early as age two and could then offer solutions to providers. They highlighted the use of sensitive data, in compliance with regulations, enabling the system to detect signs of neurodivergence through prompts and mathematical analysis. The deputee described the use of a ‘neurodiversity bank’ that would continuously learn and improve its accuracy by analysing more data, allowing it to better identify needs and provide early interventions. The system would act as a centralised platform for support and resources.

Members requested that officers prepare a written response to the deputees.

Action By - Director of Education Commissioning and Inclusion

Hugo Keane and Alexandra Milenov presented their deputation statement, on the topic of the environmental impact of school uniforms, included within the supplementary agenda (pages 5-9).

The Chair thanked the deputees for their presentation and invited questions and comments from the Committee. The following was discussed:

·       A Member expressed support for the research, but raised a concern about the cost, noting that polyester was inexpensive while cotton tended to be more expensive. They asked how the issue could be addressed while keeping uniforms affordable. The deputee highlighted that, with fellow parents, they had compared uniform costs and found that high street shops often offered cheaper, more environmental options than the prescribed uniform and it was possible to offer better, non-polyester alternatives within the typical £250 uniform budget. The deputee recommended reimagining the uniform, possibly phasing out the blazer, as a simple first step.

·       A Member suggested that schools could recycle uniforms and asked what systems or incentives were in place at schools to support this. The deputee responded that a system had existed in their school, but it had not been fully implemented, as the school often did not take action with the uniforms collected. The success of such a program depended on the availability of second-hand uniform and willingness by parents and the school. The deputee said it was a statutory requirement for schools to provide second-hand uniforms, but noted their uncertainty about its effectiveness across the country. An incentive system had been discussed, but in their experience there had been limited willingness to participate and there were limitations of a recycling system.

Members requested that officers prepare a written response to the deputees.

Action By - Director of Education Commissioning and Inclusion