This report presents the outcome of the preliminary stakeholder consultation (pre-statutory) on the proposal to close St Matthias Primary School.

It explains the background and reasons for the first stage of the consultation; the responses received with the views of parents, pupils, staff and the general public. It recommends for the Mayor in cabinet to consider whether to proceed to the next stage of the process, which would be to issue a statutory notice.

The report includes an analysis of all representations received and any responses made; risk and opportunities; financial implications, officer’s recommendations; decisions available to the Mayor in Cabinet.

The Pre-Decision Scrutiny Questions and officer responses were noted.

DECISION

1.    To agree to move to the publication of a statutory notice for 28 days, in respect of the proposal to close St Matthias CofE Primary School. This will take effect from 31^st August 2021, with the displaced pupils admitted to other nearby schools, including a nearby Church of England Primary School.

2.    To note the Equalities Assessment set out in Section 4 of the report and attached as Appendix 2 to the report.

Action by:

CORPORATE DIRECTOR, CHILDREN AND CULTURE (J. THOMAS)

(Service Head for Pupil Access and School Sufficiency (T. Bryan)

(School Organisation Manager (I. Mkparu)