Decision

(1) That, details of the representations received to the published Statutory Proposal to change the age range of Highfield Primary School, Beeches Road, Rowley Regis, B65 0DA (the school) from 3-11 years old to 5-11 years old be considered;

(2) that, in connection with the five objections received during the statutory representation period following publication of the Statutory Proposal, no further action be taken in response, and the objectors be advised accordingly; and

(3) that, having taken the representations into account, and no further action being required, approval be given to make the prescribed alternations for the school, as set out in (1) above.

Reasons for the decision

Following Cabinet Decision No.40/24 (1) (a), a Statutory Proposal was published 29 April 2024 relating to the proposed prescribed alteration to change the age range of Highfield Primary School, Beeches Road, Rowley Regis, B65 0DA (the school) from 3-11 years old to 5-11 years old. The representation period closed on 27 May 2024. The Proposal was published on the Council’s Consultation Hub. Notice of the Statutory Proposal was also published in the Express and Star on 24 April 2024.

5 responses were received via the Consultation Hub. 1 response was both in favour and against the change of age range. 4 responders provided an explanation for their objection. The Cabinet Decision No.40/24 (1) (c) requires, in the event that any objections are raised during the statutory representation period for the Statutory Proposal, that a report is submitted to the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education with full details of representations received to inform a final decision on the proposal.

In consideration of the commentary, relating to the detailed objections were received, the Cabinet Member is recommended to proceed to make a final decision for the prescribed alterations as planned, and in accordance with Cabinet Decision No.40/24.

Alternative options considered

Do nothing and keep the age range at the existing range of 3-11 years – this would be a detrimental impact on the school’s budget and resources.

Retain the existing age range of 3-11 years, but reduce the Nursery to 26 places, 13 AM session / 13 PM session. The Governing Body has considered reducing the overall capacity of the Nursery to fewer places but in the long term, does not consider there is sufficient demand to provide a sustainable solution for future years.

Combine the school’s Nursery and Reception classes to form an Early Years / Foundation Unit. The Governing Body has considered the option but, the financial viability of operating a unit model would create additional financial concerns for the school.