Cumbria County Council's school improvement officer for inclusive education is leading a study on how local authorities move to becoming integrated children's services.
Because of his ongoing work in Cumbria for inclusive education, Martyn Worrall was approached by London University to study for a Doctorate, specifically focusing on the transition process which local authorities should undergo as they move to becoming integrated children's services. His work will form part of the University's evaluation of a number of children's services. The results of the research will be submitted to the DfES and Cumbria will have an opportunity to be a case study which will assist the DfES as it monitors the process of the Every Child Matters agenda.
Philip Chappelhow, cabinet spokesman for children's services said:
"This is great news for Cumbria. Its wonderful to see that the outstanding work Martyn has already achieved in developing our inclusive education policies has attracted such interest. This study will make sure Cumbria is at the forefront at this significant time of development in children's services."
Martyn Worrall said:
"It came as quite a surprise to be asked to study for a Doctorate; it didn't exactly fit in with my work/life plan! Now that I'm into it, however, I'm enjoying the challenge of undertaking detailed academic research. The timing of my work couldn't be better as, hopefully, it will be of assistance to Cumbria as we develop into an effective Children's Service