The Cabinet considered a report of the Deputy Chief Executive (People) providing an update on the progress of a strategy for the provision of secondary school places as overseen by the School Places Working Party.

Resolved:-

1.    That the recommendations made at the School Places Working Party (as set out in paragraph 2.2 of the submitted report and in 2-5 below), held on 6th February 2017, be noted and approved.

In order to meet the immediate need for secondary school places by September 2018:-

2.    That the expansion discussions with Good and Outstanding Schools, be continued.

In order to meet the additional need for school places for September 2019:-

3.    That an initial exploration takes place with a small number of Academy Trusts regarding a secondary free school.

4.    That the exploration of expansion opportunities takes place with schools that currently require improvement.

5.    That officers continue dialogue with faith schools regarding future expansion, where there is excess demand but places should be for Southend children only.

Reason for Decision

1.    The need for school places from September 2018 is intended to be met by expansion of ‘good or better’ secondary schools.

2.    Additional need from September 2019 is expected to be met through a successful free school application to the DfE.

3.    Additional need from 2020 onwards is aimed to be met from expansions at currently underperforming schools (and faith schools if data evidences an increased cohort of Catholic pupil’s resident within Southend).

Other Options

As set out in the submitted report.

Note:- This is an Executive Function.

Eligible for call-in to People Scrutiny Committee.

Executive Councillor :- Courtenay