URL: https://democracy.darlington.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1964

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: The Cabinet Member with the Children and Young People Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Executive Director of People for the consideration of options of continuing with the planned 48 place Garden Village Free School or receiving an additional high needs capital allocation from the Department for Education to deliver the same number of places in a new way.   The report explained that in 2023 the Council successfully bided for a special free school in Darlington. The Garden Village Special Free School will provide 48 full-time places for pupils ages 11-19 with a primarily need of autism. The Education Village Academy Trust (EVAT) were subsequently successful in being appointed sponsor trust for the new school. In 2024 the government instigated a value-for-money review on the wider free school programme and work on the Darlington school ceased. It was explained that the Council has now been given the option of proceeding with the school or receiving an additional capital allocation.   RESOLVED - It is recommended that:   (a)    Cabinet approves the option of proceeding with the new 48 place special free school as planned for children aged 11-19 with a primary need of autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).   REASON –   (a)    To enable the Council to fulfil its statutory responsibilities in ensuring that there are sufficient special school places in the right place at the right time.   (b)   Increasing the number of state maintained special school places available within the borough will reduce the council’s reliance on the independent/non-maintained special school sector and out of area placements and reduce pressures on the high needs and home to school transport budgets as children’s needs are met closer to home.  

Date of Decision: February 3, 2026