Purpose

The SEND Big Plan sets out our
strategy to improve our local provision for children, young people
and families with additional needs. As part of this strategy we
need to secure sufficient local Alternative Provision (AP) to meet
the needs of our children and young people now and in the
future.
 
An application was made to the
DfE in 2022 to establish an AP Free School. Following recent
communication from the DfE, we were informed we have been
successful in this application. This report will present the two
options that the DFE have made available to the Local Authority in
relation to securing government funded Alternative and will require
a decision in relation to those options. 
 
There is ongoing engagement
regarding Alternative Provision with the Local Area Partnership
including via the Alternative Provision Board, Places Access and
Inclusion Committee of the Education and Learning Partnership Board
and Schools Forum.
 
Background papers;

Alternative Provision - Cabinet Report - Dec 22 -
final.pdf

Content

RESOLVED –
 
That approval be given to (i)
confirm with the Department for Education that Kirklees should
progress with the establishment of a 125 place Alternative
Provision Free School and (ii) delegate authority to the Executive
Director (Children and Families) and the Cabinet Member for
Education to work with the Department for Education and the
appointed Multi Academy Trust, Delta, to take forward the
project.