Issue details

Proposal to agree a Governing Body proposal to enlarge the school and add a 6^th form, following consideration of responses to the consultation, which ended on 27 April 2015, and to the Public Notice that was published by the Governing Body on 8 May 2015.

The proposed expansion would consist of:-

• Enlarging the school by combining The Ellington and Hereson School with The Marlowe Academy, proposed for closure from 31 August 2015. The enlarged Ellington and Hereson School would operate over both school sites.
• Increasing the admission number of the school from 120 to 200
• Changing the age-range of the school from 11-16 to 11-19 by the addition of a 6th form

These proposals will help “to ensure that Kent’s young people have access to the education, work and skills opportunities necessary to support Kent business to grow and be increasingly competitive in the national and international economy” as set out in ‘Increasing Opportunities, Improving Outcomes’: Kent County Council’s Strategic Statement (2015-2020)’.

The ‘Kent Commissioning Plan for Education Provision, 2015-19’ identifies that, by 2018/19, additional secondary capacity will be required.  These proposals will secure the capacity for future growth to respond to the increased numbers of pupils coming through from Thanet Primary schools over the next few years. 

Financial Implications:

Capital – The Marlowe site and buildings will transfer back into KCC ownership in line with provisions in the original agreement when Marlowe was established until such time as Ellington & Hereson transfers into the Coastal Academies Trust, when the land and buildings will be subject to a 125 year lease.

Revenue – There are cost implications related to bringing the two school sites together, aligning ICT systems and potential redundancy costs.  Detailed costs are being established and discussions are taking place with the Education Funding Agency in order to mitigate any financial risk for the school and the Authority.

Human – All staff of Marlowe Academy with employment rights will be subject to TUPE.  Following transfer, a revised staffing structure will need to be implemented.  Both sets of staff are being consulted and supported through the process.