Agenda and draft minutes

www.swansea.gov.uk/disclosuresofinterests

None

None

Questions can be submitted in writing to scrutiny@swansea.gov.uk up until noon on the working day prior to the meeting. Written questions take precedence. Public may attend and ask questions in person if time allows. Questions must relate to items on the open part of the agenda and will be dealt with in a 10-minute period.

There were no public questions received.

Invited to attend are Cllr Robert Smith (Cabinet Member for Education and Skills) and Helen Morgan Rees (Director of Education)

The Panel thanked the director of Education and the Education Funding and Information Officer for attending the meeting to discuss the future plans for special schools in Swansea.  They provided a presentation that covered:

·       The vision and the case for change

·       What, how, when and where in relation to the proposed amalgamation

·       Consultation that has taken place and responses received

·       Statutory Notice and schedule

·       Next steps

The Panel asked a number of questions:

·       The number of responses that supported the proposal

·       Where other sites considered for its location.

·       What is the state of/category of the two buildings being move from

·       Will the home to school transports costs increase.

·       How many extra pupils will the proposal cater for.  How many do we currently serve. How many out of county placement.

·       How will we future proof this proposal, ensuring that future needs are built into it.

·       Will the entry criteria and process used be reviewed in light of the different types of pupils that may be coming through.

·       Will the amalgamation have an implication on jobs or will it result in job losses.

·       Do the people who gave their views in the consultation know that they must give their objection also, should they want to.

·       Have Estyn given any feedback on the Councils response to their consultation submission.

·       Has any other works in other schools had to be put back in order for this amalgamation and new build to potentially progress.

A summary of the discussion including in relation to these questions, including the Panels views on this matter, will form part of the Convener’s letter to the Cabinet Member following this meeting.