Issue - items at meetings - Protocol for the Creation of All Through Primary Schools

Report of the Director of Children’s Services (copy attached).

1.     That the decision be deferred to the special meeting of the Children & Young People Cabinet Member Meeting to be held on 30 July 2008.

28.1       The Cabinet Member considered a report of the Director of Children’s Services regarding a revised protocol for the creation of all-through primary schools, supporting the amalgamation of infant and junior schools where considered appropriate (for copy see minute book).

28.2       The Cabinet Member indicated that she would allow a discussion on this item. However, she would not be making a decision on this item at today’s meeting. She explained that the report circulated with the agenda missed some information and, in order to make the process open and transparent and allow for the full document to be in the public domain before a decision was made.  A special meeting of the Children & Young People’s Cabinet Member would be arranged for 30 July 2008, where a decision would be made.

28.3       The Assistant Director, as School Support Central Area, explained that this was a protocol that would only come into being when a merger was being considered. He indicated that, in terms of consultation, the draft document had been distributed widely and discussed at numerous groups, which included all Headteachers and Chairs of Governors in the city and school advisors. He clarified that the comments received were generally supportive, recognising the potential advantages of all through primary schools.

28.4       The Assistant Director also confirmed that, whilst there was general support for the protocol, it was also recognised that for any change to be made to existing schools, there would be a comprehensive consultation process to be followed which would allow concerns or comments from any quarter to be fully considered.

28.5       Cllr Hawkes welcomed the proposal and considered it would be advantageous for schools in the city.

28.6       RESOLVED - That the decision be deferred to the special meeting of the Children & Young People Cabinet Member Meeting to be held on 30 July 2008.