Purpose

Decision on options for moving
forward with the DfE Free School Process

Decision

RESOLVED
that Cabinet:-
 
(i)           
Note the key related strategic and operational
context;

 
(ii)         
Consider the four options presented in the options
appraisal;
 
(iii)        
Approve the recommendation to proceed with Option 2
for SEND and Option 4 for AP, that is not continue with previous
plans to open two DfE-led Free School projects, and to instead
accept a capital grant of £9.4m to meet SEND and AP
sufficiency needs through Council-led local solutions;
 
(iv)        
Authorise the Executive Director of Children’s
Services to formally notify the DfE of the Council’s decision
by 27 February 2026; and
 
(v)         
 Subject to Cabinet
approval, authorise officers to undertake all necessary
implementation actions, including stakeholder engagement and
partnership arrangements.