Agenda item

Ian Pearson introduced a report (Agenda Item 12), which sought comment and input on the proposals on Alternative Education Provision: Education Plan for young people with additional needs, arising from the public consultation.

The proposals as an outcome of the public consultation were :

·         The reorganisation would proceed as per the original timetable.

·         The two current services would merge to become one new Alternative Education Provision (AEP).

·         Sites would reduce from 6-4, but the actual sites to be retained would be further reviewed

·         Pupil numbers to be further reviewed.  It was noted that this was the most significant issue raised.

·         That Home Education would remain as part of the new Alternative Education Provision service for 2017/18 but may be reviewed again to ensure efficient use of resources and best outcomes for young people.

Ian Pearson noted that for Home Education there was a £65k overspend forecasted by year-end. He also explained that the AEP will look at differing models of provision and move where possible to a proactive, rather than a reactive service and the number of pupil places did not necessarily represent the number of pupils whose needs can be met by the service. For example there would be 8 post-16 places but support could be offered to 12 pupils.

Jacquie Davies explained that the delivery model was still to be determined, but there would be a greater emphasis on supporting pupils before exclusion to reduce demand and enable schools to support pupils with challenging behaviour themselves. In response to a question from Paul Dick, Jacquie Davis explained that there would also be a need to move quicker to respond to the needs of schools and pupils.

RESOLVED that the report be noted.