Decision details

Purpose of Report: The report provides Cabinet with details of the responses received during the statutory six-week representation period that followed publication of notices proposing to close Derwent and to expand Osbaldwick to create a two-form of entry school using both of the existing sites.

The report describes the issues regarding the future provision of primary education within the catchment areas of Derwent Schools Federation and Osbaldwick Primary School.

Cabinet is asked: to consider the responses received during the statutory representation period and to decide whether to proceed with the proposed closure of the Derwent schools and the expansion of Osbaldwick school.

RESOLVED:       That Cabinet agree to:

i)             Close Derwent Infant and Junior Schools from 31 August 2013

ii)            Operate an expanded Osbaldwick Primary School from 1 September 2013

iii)          The minor changes to the catchment area of Tang Hall Primary School and the existing Derwent catchment area in order to balance the available school places from September 2013

iv)          An increase in Planned Admission Numbers (PAN) to Osbaldwick Primary from September 2013

REASON:           The primary education of children will be best served by expanding Osbaldwick Primary, building on the strong leadership and governance already available in the local education community and using the excellent facilities available at Derwent Schools.