It is essential that all our young people have access to music education. I recognise that more must be done to support them to have the opportunity to develop their talents and skills. That is why I have made available additional funding in 2018-19 and 2019-20 to support music activities.

South Wales West constituency showed improved attainment for its level 2 inclusive performance in 2018. There are no schools in an Estyn statutory category in Neath Port Talbot or Swansea, but three in Bridgend. Local authorities have statutory responsibility for intervening where appropriate and should take prompt action to address any issues.

Across Government we are prioritising support for schools through the local government settlement. We continue to provide significant additional grant funding over and above the core funding for schools through local authorities. Over this Assembly term, we have committed to invest £100 million to raise school standards.

I refer the Assembly Member to my responses on 25 April and 19 September 2018. Schools funding is the responsibility of local authorities as is set out in law in Wales. There are no current proposals to review the way in which schools are funded.

The adult learning in Wales policy reaffirms our commitment to adult learners. Following a recent consultation, officials are working with the sector to take forward changes to delivery structures and funding of adult learning. We are seeking to ensure a more equitable and sustainable model operational from September 2020.  

Estyn is an independent body and, as such, the work of the inspectorate is a matter for Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales. The independent review of Estyn considered the implications of our education reforms on the future role and operation of the inspectorate.