Archived decisions

Contact: Ian Lawson, Strategic Planning Officer (01962 846350)

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the action taken by the County Education Officer, to publish proposals to reduce the Standard Number of Manor Field Junior School, from 68 to 60, be endorsed.

1. Reasons

1.1 The current Standard Number of Manor Field Junior School, Basingstoke, is 68, whereas the capacity of the school (under both the old "MOE" calculation and the new "Net Capacity" method) is 240. This suggests that a Standard Number (and Admission Limit) of 60 would be more appropriate.

1.2 During the spring of 2002, consultations took place with the governing body, who agreed that a reduction from 68 to 60 should be sought, for admissions in September 2003. However, further action was deferred as this school was involved in the reorganisation of primary schools in south-west Basingstoke. Although the approved strategy now includes some additional accommodation at Manor Field Junior, that will not be available for the 2003/04 school year. Consequently, the school governors have asked that the Standard Number reduction should proceed so that they can manage admissions in September 2003 within the accommodation available.

1.3 In order to meet the timetable for admission decisions, it will be necessary for this reduction to be considered by the School Organisation Committee on 23 May 2003. To achieve this deadline, it was necessary for the County Education Officer (following informal consultation with the Executive Member) to arrange for the public notices to be published during February 2003.

2. Other options considered and rejected

3.1 Not applicable.

3. Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or member or officer consulted

4.1 None

4. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

4.1 Not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1 Not applicable.

Approved by: Date of decision:

Councillor D. Allen

Section 100D - Local Government Act 1972 - Background papers

The following documents disclose facts or matters on which this report, or an important part of it, is based and has been relied upon to a material extent in the preparation of this report.

NB: the list excludes:

1. Published works

2. Documents which disclose exempt or confidential information as defined in the Act.

Notes of consultation with Governing Body - on Education Department file