URL: https://democracy.kirklees.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=13342

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: The SEND Big Plan sets out our strategy to improve our local provision for children, young people and families with additional needs. As part of this strategy we need to secure sufficient local Alternative Provision (AP) to meet the needs of our children and young people now and in the future.   An application was made to the DfE in 2022 to establish an AP Free School. Following recent communication from the DfE, we were informed we have been successful in this application. This report will present the two options that the DFE have made available to the Local Authority in relation to securing government funded Alternative and will require a decision in relation to those options.    There is ongoing engagement regarding Alternative Provision with the Local Area Partnership including via the Alternative Provision Board, Places Access and Inclusion Committee of the Education and Learning Partnership Board and Schools Forum.   Background papers; Alternative Provision - Cabinet Report - Dec 22 - final.pdf

Content: The SEND Big Plan sets out our strategy to improve our local provision for children, young people and families with additional needs. As part of this strategy we need to secure sufficient local Alternative Provision (AP) to meet the needs of our children and young people now and in the future.   An application was made to the DfE in 2022 to establish an AP Free School. Following recent communication from the DfE, we were informed we have been successful in this application. This report will present the two options that the DFE have made available to the Local Authority in relation to securing government funded Alternative and will require a decision in relation to those options.    There is ongoing engagement regarding Alternative Provision with the Local Area Partnership including via the Alternative Provision Board, Places Access and Inclusion Committee of the Education and Learning Partnership Board and Schools Forum.   Background papers; Alternative Provision - Cabinet Report - Dec 22 - final.pdf RESOLVED –   That approval be given to (i) confirm with the Department for Education that Kirklees should progress with the establishment of a 125 place Alternative Provision Free School and (ii) delegate authority to the Executive Director (Children and Families) and the Cabinet Member for Education to work with the Department for Education and the appointed Multi Academy Trust, Delta, to take forward the project.   

Date of Decision: February 10, 2026