Decision

The Cabinet has decided to approve a £57 million investment in Staffordshire schools, focusing on maintenance, energy efficiency, and improved provision for SEND pupils.

Analysis

outcome: The Schools Capital Programme 2024/25 investment proposal was approved, with authority delegated for monitoring progress, making in-year alterations, and entering contracts for projects within the programme.

summary: The decision involves the approval of the Schools Capital Programme for 2024/25, which includes a £57 million investment in Staffordshire schools for maintenance, improvements, energy efficiency, new school places, and enhanced provision for SEND pupils.

topline: The Cabinet has decided to approve a £57 million investment in Staffordshire schools, focusing on maintenance, energy efficiency, and improved provision for SEND pupils.

reason_contentious: The issue may be contentious due to the significant investment and its impact on local education infrastructure, the focus on energy efficiency and net zero carbon emissions goals, and the provision for SEND pupils, which can be politically sensitive and subject to stakeholder scrutiny.

affected_stakeholders: Students, parents, teachers, school staff, local communities, SEND pupils, and taxpayers.

contentiousness_score: 5

political_party_relevance: There is no direct mention of political parties or political influence on the decision, but education and investment in infrastructure are typically influenced by the political priorities of the governing party.

URL: https://moderngov.staffordshire.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=3686

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: The Capital Programme for Schools 2024/ 2025 consists of SCC's Statement of Priorities for its schools and associated appendices for major projects and maintenance projects. Programme to be approved by Cabinet for commencement/ completion in 2024/ 2025.

Content: ?  ?  ?  “Maintaining our schools and creating an environment that encourages learning is crucial for our children to thrive.     This year, we're investing nearly £57 million in Staffordshire schools for upkeep and improvements. The funds will also be used to make schools more energy-efficient, directly contributing to the county council’s goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions.     Some of this funding will also be used to deliver new school places and improve existing provision in schools for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This is to ensure children and young people, irrespective of background, can access a good education that enables them to fulfil their potential.”??  ?  Jonathan Price, Cabinet Member for Education (and SEND)?    Reasons for the Decision – To consider approving the Schools Capital Programme for 2024/25.    Decision – (a) That the Schools Capital Programme 2024/25 investment proposal (as set out in the supporting appendices to the report) be approved.    (b) That the Assistant Director for Commercial and Assets be authorised to monitor progress and make any necessary in-year alterations in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Education (and SEND).    (c) That authority be delegated to the Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Corporate Services to enter contracts for projects in the Capital Programme which have a value of £2,000,000 or above. Other contract awards and modifications will be in accordance with the Council’s Procurement Regulations. 

Date of Decision: March 20, 2024