Purpose

This report confirms the intention of BROADBOTTOM CofE PRIMARY SCHOOL, to convert to an Academy and seeks approval from the decision taker to a transfer and to enter into a Commercial Transfer Agreement, which addresses how matters such as staffing, and assets will be transferred to the new legal entity. It also details the process which has been followed to progress the conversion of the school and the implications for the Council if this is approved.

Decision

(i)                  The Director of Legal and Democratic Services authorised to enter into the Commercial Transfer Agreement, which takes into account the principle that risk and liability does not transfer back to the Council and in respect of which the funds and reserves to manage the risks/liabilities will transfer to the Academy and consequently the Council should be in no worse position because of the transfer.

(ii)               The Council does not offer to pool with the Academy, in respect of the pension fund liabilities in the Greater Manchester Pension Fund.

(iii)             Delegation of authority to the Strategic Director of Finance or their nominated representative to execute any necessary Greater Manchester Pension Fund for Transferee Admission Bodies documentation.

(iv)             The conversion of Broadbottom CofE Primary School to take place on or around 1 March 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Reasons for the decision

To support Tameside schools to convert to Academy status.

Alternative options considered

None Considered.