That the comments of the School Places Working
Group be noted, in particular its
resolution that:
- That pupil roll projections and
other trend data set out in the report be noted;
- That a planning margin of 5% above
the GLA school roll projections is continued to be sought to
provide for local variations in need and to meet parental
preferences;
- That whilst there are, at the
moment, sufficient places available or planned to meet current and
projected demand for school places, the Council will work with
schools to safeguard the existing supply of school places as
required;
- That there are specific pressures
for placements for pupils with an Education Health and Care Plan
(EHCP) and that the Council works with
local schools, trusts and the DfE to bring proposals forward to
increase capacity and improve provision where necessary;
- That discussions be undertaken with
schools, multi academy trusts and the DfE, as outlined in this
report, to ensure a sufficient supply of mainstream school places
in the Borough, including through expansions and opening new
schools;
- That the potential delay to Harris
Kent House free school opening is noted and that it is recommended
that the Council engages in conversation with Harris Federation and
other academy trusts operating in the borough to ensure that there
are sufficient school places until the school opens;
- Where expansion is agreed, to
implement through the education capital programme (subject to the
availability of funds); and
- That the direction of travel for the
increase in local SEND provision be endorsed.