Decision

Agreed that:-

(1) further to Minute No.100/23 of Cabinet, the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education approved the:

a. formal closure of Hamstead Infant School, Tanhouse Avenue, Great Barr B43 5AS with effect from 31 December 2023; and
b. an increase in the age range of Hamstead Junior School, Hamstead Road, Great Barr B43 5BE from the ages of 8-11 years old to 3-11 years old to accommodate the displaced pupils from Hamstead Infant School with effect from 1 January 2024.

(2) in connection with the one objection received during the representation period following publication of the Statutory Proposal, no further action be taken in response, and the objector be advised accordingly.

Reasons for the decision

An objection to the Statutory Proposal had been received during the representation period which required a further report to the Cabinet Member in accordance with Minute No.100/23(3).

Alternative options considered

To not proceed with the proposed amalgamation of the two schools, leading to inefficiencies in revenue expenditure and duplication of certain operational functions and spend.

Closure of Hamstead Junior School. Due to a high level of senior school staff vacancies at the Infant School, the Infant School could not support a successful expansion to its age range to operate at the two-form entry primary school model required.

Closure of both schools. A new school could not be established by the Local Authority to replace the schools, and a free school sponsor for a replacement school would need to be secured.