Issue - meetings

To receive a report on the applications for new SEN free schools.

The committee received the report on the submitted application to expand the  number of in borough special educational needs free schools through engagement with the Department for Education programme.

There was a requirement at this stage to give confirmation to the Department for Education that costs would be covered in order for the application to progress. However, assurances were given to committee that if the costs became excessive or onerous a further report would be brought back for debate and the option to withdraw.

RESOLVED (by majority):

That the Children and Families Committee:

1.    Note the submission of two applications for SEN Free Schools. If successful, these new resources would provide a key mitigation within the SEN High needs management plan.

2.    Agree to provide indemnity if one or both schemes are successful. Indemnity would need to be provided relating to any ‘abnormal site development’ costs. Such a task is part of any new school development site and the initial analysis of the two site is that there are low levels of risk.

3.    Note that if successful, these schools would progress through the free school presumption route and appropriate reports would be provided to committee as projects progress to seek relevant delegated approvals.