Archived decisions

Contact: Robin Thomas Tel. 01962 846426 email: [email protected]

Ian Lawson Tel: 01962 846350 email: [email protected]

1 Summary

1.1 Approval is sought for consultations to be carried out on:

· the closure of Hawthorns School, Basingstoke from 31 August 2004;

· the opening of a new special school for pupils of secondary age with statements of Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties in the premises of Hawthorns School, Basingstoke from 1 September 2005;

· interim arrangements to apply between 1 September 2004 and 31 August 2005.

1.2 The proposal to close Hawthorns School is consistent with Hampshire County Council's corporate aims in terms of:

· Aim 1 - maximising life opportunities

· Aim 4 - building strong and safe communities

· Aim 5 - improving services

2 Reason

2.1 The school has been in special measures for nearly two and a half years with intensive support having been provided by the LEA. Whilst some improvements have been made, the overall rate and level of progress has been unsatisfactory; a fresh start is deemed to be necessary.

3 Other options considered and rejected

3.1 The only other option is to keep Hawthorns School open. This option has been rejected due to the time that has already passed since the school was placed in special measures and the lack of progress that has been made during that period.

4 Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or a member or officer consulted - none

5 Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - not applicable.

6 Reasons for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1 There is an urgent need to bring about significant, sustainable improvement for the pupils concerned.

Approved by Date of decision

Councillor D Allen