Paedophile head teacher Neil Foden recommendations ‘need more urgency’

The report said it was “appalling” that some safeguarding failings identified in Foden’s case were similar to those found by the Clywch inquiry 20 years previously, after paedophile teacher John Owen killed himself while awaiting trial.

Cifuentes said a review of the school governance system had been started by the previous Welsh Labour Welsh government, but she felt work had stalled since Plaid Cymru were elected in May.

“We can’t wait for review after review after review to see change happen,” she said.

“The Neil Foden Child Practice Review uncovered some serious deficiencies with the school governing body system, in particular, which was a theme that was picked up 20 years ago through the Clywch inquiry…

“The previous Welsh government did start a piece of work looking at how school governing bodies function, however that work has been on pause seemingly since the new government started.

“It’s really crucial we hear from the Welsh government what their plans are to conclude that piece of work, because it’s a crucial part of the jigsaw.”

Helen Mary Jones was a Plaid Cymru Assembly Member when the Clywch report was published, and since then has become an advocate for children’s rights.

She said it was better to take time and get the changes right rather than rush them, and “end up with bolt-ons that don’t shift the culture” but added she could see why it was “frustrating”.

“It’s obviously frustrating that it’s taking the time that it is,” she said.

“I think the important thing is ministers continue to really keep an eye on all of this and make sure it’s a priority.

“I’d like to see a clear timetable set out so that we know when to expect these changes.

“I hope that in six months’ time we’ll be in a position where all the changes have been made.”

Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language Anna Brychan said the findings from the report “continue to inform work to strengthen safeguarding arrangements in education across Wales”.

“This case was incredibly shocking and my thoughts remain with all those affected,” she said.

“As a government we are committed to addressing the recommendations within the report and progress is being made across a programme of national work designed to strengthen safeguarding arrangements and support lasting improvement.

“We are taking this work forward with purpose and at pace, while ensuring that the changes we make are evidence-based, effective and sustainable.”

The Welsh government said: “The timing of consultation on key education policies and guidance reflects the sequencing of interdependent pieces of work to ensure any national guidance consulted on reflects the current position from the outset, rather than consulting on changes prematurely and potentially having to revisit them.”

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