Purpose

Recommendation to approve internal changes to the New Hawthorns School proving an additional 26 SEND places and amending the specification to allow a provision for pupils with additional language and communication needs.

Decision

That it be determined that:

1. Approval is given to allocate the sum of £46,162.38 for the amendments to the internal layout and fixings at the new Hawthorns SEND Academy to accommodate an additional 26 SEND pupil placements for pupils with additional learning and communication needs.  The sum is made up of the Academy and council jointly funding the total costs of £83,931.60 to be split equally at £41,965.80 each with a 10% contingency allowance of £4,196.58 each. The net cost of £46,162.38 to be drawn down from the new Hawthorns scheme contingency.
2. Any expenditure against the remaining budget will be monitored through the Strategic Planning and Capital Monitoring Panel (SPCMP).
3. Approval be given to enter into a Legal agreement with the Academy to reimburse the Council for their share of the costs being £46,162.38 of the uplift with both the Academy and the Council contributing equal sums.
4. That before the end of the year a further report is received by Board/Cabinet from the assistant Director of Education to address the intentions for the Audenshaw site currently occupied by Hawthorns, which as set out in paragraph 3.10 is required to be surrendered to the Council on occupation by the Academy of the new site.

Reasons for the decision

To ensure that the Council can meet its statutory duty to provide sufficient Academy places, to provide schools with sufficient facilities for SEND provision and improve the education needs of the Authority.