Issue - meetings

This report summarises developments since the proposal to close Derwent Infant and Junior Schools and expand Osbaldwick Primary and the results of the six-week statutory representation period followed the publication of notices which closed on 16April 2013. It also includes an update on staffing and financial issues, pupil places and arrangements to ensure the best possible quality of education for all pupils

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. 

Consideration was given to a report which summarised developments since a report, dated 27 February 2013 had been presented to Cabinet, in relation to the proposal to close Derwent Infant and Junior Schools and to expand Osbaldwick Primary.

Alison Holt the Chair of Governors for Derwent Federation spoke to advise that the proposals were a positive way forward and that the children would thrive as a result. She thanked parents for their thoughtful contributions to the consultation.

Jane Lewis the Chair of Governors for Osbaldwick Primary School spoke to advise that the solution was a bold one and that the consultation had been education and community led and had shown a desire for those affected to work together. She stated that Osbaldwick staff would continue to work with Derwent to ensure continuity and some Governors would be moving over to Derwent School. She commended the proposals for approval.

The update included:

·        Information on staffing and financial issues

·        Information on pupil places

·        Further details on the arrangements in place to ensure the best possible quality of education for the pupils affected.

The Leader spoke on behalf of the Cabinet Member who had sent her apologies and thanked Officers and school staff for working with the community on the consultation and for not shying away from a tough decision.

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. ¹

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.