Issue - meetings

Cllr Laura Mayes, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, presented a report which had been produced as part of the statutory process for the determination of admission arrangements to maintained schools.

She explained that very few responses had been received to the consultation with schools, parents, neighbouring authorities and Senior Officers at Wiltshire Council.

The proposed process for the co-ordination of admissions was broadly similar to previous years apart from the revision to reflect the removal of the requirement for Local Authorities to co-ordinate In Year Admissions cross border as specified in the New School Admissions Code which had come into force on 1 February 2012. The proposed timetables were also the same as previous year.

The general process seemed to be accepted and it had proved efficient, this was reflected by more than 90% of secondary schools applicants being offered their first preference.

She pointed out that Children in Care and Vulnerable Children were, rightfully, the top two criteria for over-subscription.

Cllr Lionel Grundy, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, supported everything said by Cllr Mayes.

Resolved:

That Cabinet approves:

a) the proposed scheme for the co-ordination of admission to secondary schools for 2013/14;

b) the proposed scheme for the co-ordination of admissions to primary schools for 2013/14;

c) the proposed admission arrangements for Voluntary Controlled & Community secondary schools for 2013/14;

d) the proposed admission arrangements for Voluntary Controlled & Community schools for 2013/14.

Reason for Decision:

The Local Authority has a statutory duty to have a determined admission policy for 2013/14 in place on or before15 April 2012.