The Cabinet considered the report of the Executive Director of Children’s Social Care and Education which sought the determination of a proposal to expand the age range at Waterloo Primary School.
Decision Made:
That approval be given to the proposal as detailed in the statutory notice to change the age range from 4 to 11 to 2 to 11 at Waterloo Primary School with effect from July 2023, as set out in Appendix A to the report.
Reasons for the Decision:
The local authority had the power to consider all options including expanding a maintained school following the statutory process detailed in the report.
Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:
Local authorities have a statutory duty to secure sufficient childcare places to enable parents to work. These childcare places need to be accessible, affordable, and delivered flexibly in high quality settings. Local authorities must ensure that the needs of children and families in each local area are met, by influencing and shaping provision through local partnerships, and by identifying gaps and developing the market.