Lisa Fenaroli

General Overview and Scrutiny Committee Officer

Wandsworth Council

The Wandsworth Council's General Overview and Scrutiny Committee convened to discuss the proposed closure of Bradstow Community Special School in Kent. After hearing arguments for and against the closure, the committee voted to take no further action, effectively allowing the Cabinet's decision to close the school to proceed. This decision was made despite concerns raised about the impact on vulnerable children and the financial implications for the council.

Committee Officer

Wandsworth Council

The Wandsworth Schools Forum met to discuss the Dedicated Schools Grant budget, free school meal trends, the Nursery Inclusion Project for All, and a responsive support officer project. Jared Brading from Sacred Heart RC (Battersea) and St Mary’s RC Primary Schools was elected as Vice Chair. The forum also approved the minutes from the meeting held on 30 June 2025 and noted future meeting dates.

Children's Committee Officer

Agenda

The Children's Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the rising demand for education, health and care plans (EHCPs) and the council's 'Back to School 2025' programme, which supports schools, pupils, and families. A task and finish group is exploring the reasons behind the increase in EHCPs, while the 'Back to School 2025' programme is rolling out initiatives like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and the Apple Schools Programme.

Committee Officer

Agenda and decisions

The Wandsworth Schools Forum was scheduled to meet to discuss the Dedicated Schools Grant recovery strategy, school balances, and the potential use of AV1 robots to support children with medical needs. The meeting was also scheduled to review the minutes from the previous meeting and note future meeting dates.

Children's Committee Officer

Agenda and decisions

The Children's Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss school finances, review performance indicators, and plan for a new approach to scrutiny. Councillors examined the Dedicated Schools Grant recovery strategy, the Children's Services end-of-year performance, and the general fund outturn position, as well as agreeing a new work programme.