Decision

Salford City Council - Record of Decision (Cabinet)

I, Paul Dennett, City Mayor, in exercise of the powers contained within the City Council Constitution do hereby approve: The amalgamation of Broadwalk Green and The Clifton Centre Pupil Referral Units as of 1 September 2026.

The Reasons are: 

Amalgamation of the two pupil referral units would allow them to operate as a single school (accommodating Years 7-11) with one budget. Both sites would remain in use, with a single Headteacher which would create financial efficiencies through financial management, better staff deployment, and more streamlined daily operations.

In addition to providing the opportunity to strengthen leadership and improve continuity, the amalgamation will also lead to educational benefits through greater integration and closer working practices.

Options considered and rejected were: None.

Assessment of Risk: Bringing together both establishments as one school will  provide the opportunity to build, in conjunction the existing staff, and a model of staffing and development that supports the school.

The source of funding is: Not Applicable

Legal Advice obtained: Hugo Hollingsworth, Principal Solicitor, Community Services (Legal) Team

This report aligns with relevant legislation and statutory guidance

Financial Advice obtained: Katie Hamilton, Schools Accountant.

Merging the PRUs will increase the overall capacity within the school, which is expected to reduce top?up funding requirements over time. Subscription costs will also decrease, as only a single subscription will be needed once the PRUs are combined. It is not anticipated that there will be any reduction in existing SLAs.

Procurement Advice obtained: Not Applicable

HR Advice obtained: Clare Gregson, HR, and OD Business Partner

A 30-day formal consultation period with trade unions and employees on the proposed phase 2 staffing structure took place from the 11th March to 10th April. Roles will be changing but there will be a suitable role for everyone. Some posts will not have the exact same duties as they do currently, but this would not necessarily mean a lower grade. In the event of this happening, safeguarding of 3 years, in line with the School Teachers’ Pay & Conditions Document 2025, would apply or, for support staff, in line with Salford City Council’s Employee Assistance Policy.

Climate Change Advice obtained: Not Applicable

Contact Officers:  

·       Cathy Starbuck, Director Education Inclusion

·       Paula Newall, Service Lead, School Organisation           

·       Telephone number: 778 0183/778 044

The appropriate scrutiny to call-in the decision is: Children’s Scrutiny Panel         

Signed:       P.Dennett                                       Dated:   17/06/26                                                    .

                    City Mayor

For Democratic Services use only

This decision was published on 18/06/26.                                            

This decision will come in force at 4.00 p.m. on 25/06/26.                                               unless it is called-in in accordance with the Decision Making Process Rules.