Purpose

This report sets out the responses to the formal consultations for four proposals that support delivery of the SEND Sufficiency Strategy approved by Cabinet on 1 October 2020.

These proposals relate to the creation of special educational needs units formally set up within mainstream schools, and the creation of additional special school places through the relocation and expansion of Broadfield Specialist School and the expansion of Sir Tom Finney Community High School.

The implementation of these proposals will support the Council to fulfil its responsibilities for ensuring the sufficiency of provision for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Subject to Cabinet approval for the proposal to relocate Broadfield Specialist School to the site of Hameldon Community College, the report also outlines the requirement for additional temporary accommodation on the existing site of Broadfield Specialist School in order to ensure there is sufficient specialist provision available in the area in the shorter term. 

The report concludes with an update on developments in relation to the implementation of other elements of the SEND Sufficiency Strategy.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the provisions of Standing Order C19 have been complied with.

Decision

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.