An Office for Standards in Education report says that since Capita’s appointment as a strategic partner in the north London borough “the pace of change has accelerated, and it is clear that the conditions for improvement are being created”.

It praises the leadership provided by Capita’s senior officers, and says:

“The trust of schools is being rebuilt, as they recognise the quality of the staff employed by the strategic partner.”

Now the council is discussing extending the company’s contract. Capita was appointed in April and its contract runs to 2003 with an optional extension to 2004.

Paul Roberts, the director of education and a Capita employee, said:

“Haringey is discussing how to ensure that the benefits accrued so far are in place for a longer time. The shape and length of the contract is under review.”

But the report says performance is still unsatisfactory, with no improvement in strategies for 14 to 19-year-olds and special needs.

Support for literacy, numeracy and schools causing concern are among the areas which are now satisfactory, while other unsatisfactory areas have seen improvement.

The report says a further inspection will be needed to check improvement can be sustained.

HARINGEY

Strengths

* Quality of leadership from Capita’s senior officers Weaknesses

* The education development plan

* Expertise of staff in services to support school improvement, particularlythe senior school improvement officers

* Child protection

* Leadership of elected members

* 14-19 strategy

* special needs strategy