The Education Department of Sefton Council is looking to appoint a consultant to develop an arts, culture* and lifelong learning strategy which will contribute to social and economic regeneration in the South of the Borough. The Authority already has in place a number of other on-going strategies for addressing these issues and this strategy must dovetail with existing programmes to ensure it contributes towards achieving the Authority's published corporate aims. A fundamental component in this particular strategy will be the identification of the arts, cultural and learning needs of local young people and, as part of this process, the Department wants the consultant to undertake an assessment of the potential and relevance of the SPACE Arts Centre to addressing these needs. However, in doing so, they wish to be clear that there is no intention for the consultant to undertake a comprehensive audit of, or report on, all educational activity in the community but to look at those areas where SPACE could profitably become part of access to learning. In undertaking this assessment, no options are preferred or excluded regarding the Centre's future. The strategy will also address the needs of other members of the local community, when compatible, with particular reference to improving access to, and participation in arts, cultural and lifelong learning activities. Specifically, though not exclusively, the consultant will be expected to undertake the following tasks. 1. A full audit of all existing arts, cultural and relevant lifelong learning resources to which both actual and potential stakeholders living in the designated area can currently have access to. 2. A detailed consultation with both actual and potential local stakeholders to determine their requirements/aspirations for arts, cultural and lifelong learning provision. This to include:

Local people living in the designated area.

Voluntary sector groups.

Schools, colleges and other educational establishments whose catchment areas include the designated area.

Local businesses.

The South Sefton Partnership (SRB)

Appropriate departments of Sefton Council, and particularly Culture Services and Education.

The Area Health Authority.

The Police.

Merseyside Youth Association (The current operators of the SPACE Arts Centre) 3. A gap analysis and fully costed options for bringing service levels in line with stakeholder expectations including the role the consultant may see for The SPACE Arts Centre. 4. Consultation with stakeholders over these options. 5. The preparation of a final report to include:

A business plan for The SPACE Arts Centre including recommendations on an appropriate management format, staff structure and a strategy for establishing and maintaining a sustainable revenue stream.

An action plan to deliver other services/facilities required as identified through the gap analysis.