Agenda item

Members received a report that provided them with an update on progress with Learning Provision Organisation in Doncaster, the establishment of the Learning Provision Organisation Board (Board), Learning Provision Organisation Strategy

(Strategy) and work to date.

Members were assured that this provision was to ensure the effective delivery of high quality learning provision in response to local demographic pressures and demand for learning places across Doncaster and thus has a significant impact in all wards.  It was explained that there was a much clearer picture of the landscape with a robust plan and strategy that had been consulted on.

Members were informed of the Learning Provision and Organisation Board that had been established to improve outcomes for all children by building strong partnerships, working effectively together and providing rigorous and regular performance management.  It was explained that the Board’s primary role was to ensure the effective delivery of the Learning Provision and Organisation Strategy.  It was explained that money went through the local authority who would work with the school.

Member raised concerns about projections around capacity, for example that Hayfield was oversubscribed yet would require more places.  Regarding Finningley, it was commented that there was a number of housing development sites being built which would place extra pressure on demand for places.  Members were informed that this supported why this policy was needed.  It was commented that in places there had been substantial new housing but that additional children had not materialised.    It was noted that it was about achieving a balance for children.

It was recognised that resources had diminished and that there was no other capital resources unless the Council brought it in.  It was shared that the Council had accomplished well to achieve S106 resources and a report could be brought back to the Panel outlining the available choices.

Members were informed that there would be a discussion with the DFE to obtain the necessary capital to ensure schools are fit and safe. 

It was explained in the report that underpinning the Strategy would be the Pupil Place Planning Local Area Plans.  That these plans made up pyramid based Key Data Reports and Pupil Place Proposal and Action Plan Reports and together incorporated both school place planning and childcare place planning in one set of strategic plans.  It was outlined that the reports look at a range of information from demographics through to the current situation, pyramid development compared to the current status of provision and the Council will plan to resolve any potential shortfalls.

Members were told how the outlined plans were considered and approved by the Board in January 2018.  It was stated that five pyramids had been prioritised for completion by the end of the Spring Term based on the demographic information and volume of additional housing.

RESOLVED That the Panel;

I.        Note the contents of the Report and the Learning Provision Organisation Strategy.;

II.        As part of the Children and Young People Overview and Scrutiny Panel 18/19 Workplan, bring an update of the Learning Provision Organisation Board and a focus on area plans and changes to capital changes (to the July meeting).