To receive a report on the outcome of the consultations on the statutory notice to close the existing Junior and Infant Hunderton Schools on 31st August 2006, and open a 3 Form of Entry 3 -11 age range Primary School on 1st September 2006.

THAT  (a) The closure of the 2 existing schools, and the opening of a 3 Form of Entry Primary School covering the 3-11 age range on 1st September 2006 be approved; and

(b)              priority be given to the Children’s Services (Education) Capital Programme to replace the existing buildings with new accommodation at the total cost of £6,004,500.

An amalgamated school in new buildings will improve significantly the quality of teaching and learning at this school and benefit considerably the area it serves.

The proposal to amalgamate the 2 schools could be abandoned, but a significant opportunity to make considerable improvements in this area of deprivation would be missed.

Amalgamation without the provision of new buildings is in theory an alternative, but in practice the benefits sought would be jeopardised and the basis of the public notice which emphasised new accommodation would be undermined.

Statutory Consultation undertaken in April and May