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EXTRACT FROM CABINET MINUTES OF 24 JULY 2006

RELATING TO REVIEW OF PRIMARY SCHOOL PROVISION IN THE NORTH AND EAST ANDOVER AREA

AT A MEETING of the CABINET of HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL held at The Castle, Winchester on 24 July 2006

Chairman:

p Councillor T.K. Thornber, CBE

Councillors:

Also present: Councillors B.D. Dash; K.R. Chapman; Dr R.J. Ellis; Mrs C.A. Leversha and Mrs P.A West.

DEPUTATIONS

The following deputations were made:

(i) Shepherds Spring Infant and Junior Schools

(ii) Knights Enham Infant School

(iii) Knights Enham Junior School

REVIEW OF PRIMARY SCHOOL PROVISION IN THE NORTH AND EAST ANDOVER AREA

The Cabinet considered the report of the Director of Children's Services (Item 6 in the Minute Book) seeking approval of proposals as a result of consultations following the review of primary school provision in the north and east Andover area. The Executive Member with special responsibility for Education expanded on the very thorough review that had been undertaken by officers in the Children's Services department and the need to address the surplus school places that exist in the Andover area, including the associated concerns that had been raised by the District Auditor. The Director of Children's Services reported that the proposals had been prepared as a result of the very clear evidence that had come out of the review, and being particularly mindful of the need for the County Council to discharge its responsibilities in respect of the Children Act. He also emphasised that achieving value for money when undertaking this type of exercise was to ensure the provision of access to services.

During the course of a full and wide-ranging discussion, Members expressed a number of views. In particular, it was recognised that there is a high level of special educational needs children in the schools involved in the review. The Director of Children's Services reassured Members, teachers and parents alike that every effort would be made to ensure that each child's needs will continue to be met and it was anticipated that the proposals would lead to enhanced services in the longer term.

The Cabinet adopted the recommendations set out in the report subject to an amendment to the published recommendation 1.1 (b) and two new resolutions. A copy of the substantive decision sheet is attached to these minutes as Appendix 1.