Purpose

The report will set out the sufficiency position for Bradford across all areas of place planning, including updates related to Government grant funded programmes. The report will also set out the proposals for 2027 to create/expand provision and the requirement to use DfE grant funding allocations against the proposed projects.

Decision

Resolved –

(1)           That the latest position in Bradford relating to the sufficiency of 0-16 places including SEND be noted. That the specific programmes and schemes being delivered to create additional places across the different areas, and the strategies being implemented to manage the pressures brought on by falling birth rates be noted.

(2)           That the use of £8.054m (2026/27) HNCA as part of the SEND capital programme to continue to deliver projects and places outlined within Document “M”, as well as establishing additional places still to be identified, as part of the Inclusion base strategy within mainstream schools be approved.

(3)           That the use of £2.830m (2026/27) BN as part of the mainstream school place capital programme where expansion needs are identified be approved.

(4)           That authority be delegated to the Strategic Director of Children Services, in consultation with the Interim Strategic Director of Corporate Resources, the Director of Legal and Governance and the Portfolio Holder to:

(i)             manage the Capital programme relating to both mainstream and SEND, as appropriate to meet changing circumstances including adding to or substituting schemes within the limit of approved grant funding.

(5)           That it be noted that the planning of 0-16 and SEND places, will be subject to a Sufficiency update report to Executive on an annual basis, including details of schemes being developed and costs.

To be actioned by: Interim Strategic Director of Children’s Services

Overview and Scrutiny Area: Children’s Services

(Darren Crawley – 07484 544029)