Issue - meetings

The Board considered a report of the Operational Director, Education, Inclusion and Provision, which provided a summary of the consultation on the proposal to close the Resource Provision Base for pupils with Hearing Impairment and Specific Learning Difficulties at Westfield Primary School.

Following approval by Executive Board on 16 June 2016, consultation commenced on the proposal to close the Resource Provision Base at Westfield Primary School. Details of the first phase of the consultation and responses were set out in the report, together with a copy of the consultation document attached at Appendix A. Approval was sought to commence statutory consultation on the proposed closure, which would be effective from 31 December 2016, and to continue support for the three pupils in Key Stage 2 attending the Base, until the completion of their primary education at Westfield Primary School.

It was noted that a further report would be presented to the Board following the statutory consultation period, so that a decision on the proposal could be determined.

Reason(s) for Decision

To provide a more inclusive offer for pupils with hearing impairment, giving them the opportunity to be educated with support alongside their peers.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

Retaining the current provision. This was rejected as it was less inclusive and more costly.

Implementation Date

A decision would be required by Executive Board prior to the end of November 2016, so that the base can be closed with effect from 31 December 2016.

RESOLVED: That

1)    the response to the first phase of consultation be noted; and

2)    the statutory consultation on the closure of the Hearing Impaired Resource Provision Base at Westfield Primary School, be approved.