​​Over the last 12 months the Island has been faced with a number of major challenges, not least of which has been the economic downturn. Education, Sport and Culture has responded to this challenge by working closely with Economic Development and Social Security, together with the Skills Board, and a range of initiatives have been introduced to support those seeking work. Further initiatives will be developed during 2011 which will include the ‘Advance to Work’ schemes, new professional and vocational training opportunities, and a unified careers and employment service.

The changing economy has inevitably had an impact on public finances, and as a result major reviews are being undertaken to identify ways in which Education, Sport and Culture can operate more efficiently and effectively, make best use of resources, and provide a high quality of service to the public. This program is now well-advanced, and the findings and recommendations of the reviews will help to guide the development of the service to meet the challenges of the future.

As part of the Comprehensive Spending Review, Education, Sport and Culture has proposed a range of spending reductions for 2011 which should help to reduce the overall level of States’ expenditure without unduly compromising our key services.

Jersey is fortunate in having a strong education system which gives students the opportunity to maximise their potential and achieve success across a wide range of academic, vocational and sporting activities. We aim to further improve the Island’s education system during 2011 by targeting support for vulnerable children and families, providing access to vocational training for 14-16 year olds, and introducing measures to raise standards in literacy and numeracy.

Social inclusion is once again a high priority for our service in the year ahead. Our aim is to increase participation across the range of learning, sport, and cultural activities for both young and old. Every section of the Department will play a role in this connection, including schools, the Youth Service, the Library, and leisure centres. As a member of the Children’s Policy Group I will work closely with Health and Social Services and Home Affairs to develop and implement the Island’s first Children and Young Persons Plan.

Our Culture and Heritage is important, and in recent months public attention has focused on the Jersey Heritage Trust. The Trust has a vital role to play in conserving our unique culture and heritage, and we will continue to support its work and all other cultural organisations. In the area of Sport, we will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure that everyone can enjoy a wide range of sporting activities at any level. Hosting the Island Games in 2015 will bring tremendous benefits to the community as a whole and provide the opportunity to develop sporting excellence.