Agenda item

The Cabinet considered a report of the Corporate Director of Children and Young People’s Serviced which sought approval to amalgamate Horndale County Infant and Nursery School and St. Francis C of E (Aided) Junior on 1 September 2025 to create a newly named all through C of E (Aided) Primary School taking account of the Local Authority’s duties as prescribed in the Education and Inspections Act 2006 to secure sufficient places and to ensure good outcomes for all children and young people in the local area (for copy of report, see file of minutes).

Councillor E Adam asked a question on behalf of himself and Councillor J Atkinson who welcomed the amalgamation. Referring to Appendix 1 Accommodation on page 74, Councillor Adam highlighted that ‘should Horndale County Infant School close, the building would be considered for alternative education opportunities in line with the needs of CYPS.”

He asked if the Portfolio Holder could provide further details on this ‘alternative’ educational opportunity and the likely timescale of implementation to provide confidence to local residents that the empty building would not be left to depreciate and be open for vandalism.

Responding to the question, Councillor T Henderson, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People’s Services said that it was  anticipated that St Francis would continue to use both school buildings from September 2025 until August 2026 to support the transition of pupils into the new school and any adaptations that may be needed to the St Francis building to accommodate an all through Primary School.  This would allow for additional time to plan for use of the building.  The most likely future use would be to support children with additional educational needs within the locality which would benefit all schools and the wider community in the Aycliffe area.  The buildings were in good condition and there was significant demand for additional specialist education provision. On that basis constant use was envisaged.

In Moving the report, Councillor Ted Henderson, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People’s Services explained that the report confirmed the amalgamation proposals. These would result in a positive impact for pupils, families and the community.

Councillor S McDonnell, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Digital, Customer Services and Procurement seconded the report and highlighted the key objectives of the amalgamation. The proposal would ensure curriculum breadth was enhanced to meet the needs of all learners. The new school would have a long and successful future for its children and thanked all those who had supported the long-term vision for the community.

Resolved:

That the recommendations in the report be approved.