Issue - meetings

This report sets out the results of the public consultation on the proposal to permanently change the age range of Herne Bay Infant School from the current 3-7 years to 2-7 years from September 2017. The Cabinet Committee is asked to comment on and either endorse or make a recommendation to the Cabinet Member on the proposed decision set out in the report.

(1)       Marissa White (Area Education Officer – East Kent) introduced the report which set out the results of a public consultation on a proposal to change the age range of Herne Bay Infant School from the current 3-7 years to 2-7 years from September 2017 and asked the Cabinet Committee to consider and endorse, or make recommendations to the Cabinet Member on a proposed decision.

(2)       Mrs White referred, in particular, to the consultation process and to the views expressed. 

(3)       In response to Members’ questions, Mrs White confirmed that: Seashells was the name of the nursery attached to Herne Bay Infant School; between 70-80% of eligible two-year olds took up free nursery places; and that, while the free places were not ring-fenced, every effort was made to ensure children, who would benefit from a free place, got one.

(4)       Resolved that the proposed decision of the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education to authorise the Corporate Director - Children, Young People and Education to issue a Public Notice to permanently change the age range of Herne Bay Infant School from 3-7 years to 2-7 years from September 2017 be endorsed.

(Should objections, not already considered by the Cabinet Member when taking this decision be received during the public notice period, a separate decision would be required in order to continue with the proposal, to allow for proper consideration of the points raised).