Decision Maker: Executive

Outcome: For Determination

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: February 26, 2026

Purpose: On 11 December 2025, the DfE offered WBC a choice to continue with DfE delivery of the two new Special free Schools or accept a direct financial settlement (for one or both schools). WBC needs to notify the DfE of its decision by 27 February 2026. The purpose of this report is to present an Options Appraisal / Business Case for the preferred option, for consideration by the Executive.

Content: RESOLVED that the Executive 1) Noted the ‘Wokingham Special Schools Business Case’ attached to this report as Appendix I. 2) Granted authority to the Director of Children’s Services to inform the DfE that the Council wished to accept the funding on offer in relation to both special free schools, amounting to £12,960,000 in total. 3) Granted authority to the Director of Children’s Services to enact the capital programme related to the delivery of special school places, in accordance with this funding provided by the DfE. 4) Noted this £12,960,0000 is also mapped into the Capital Programme and Strategy Report and built into the MTFP that forms part of the same agenda as this report.