Issue - items at meetings - Proposal for the development of a new secondary school in Brighton and Hove

Report of the Executive Director for Children’s Services (copy attached).

That the Committee notes the information in this report and resolves to inform the University of Brighton of its in principle support for the university’s proposal to submit an application to develop a secondary free school in the city.

164A.1  The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director for Children’s Services in relation to the Proposal for the Development of a New Secondary School in Brighton & Hove. The report asked the Committee to consider a request forom the Board of Governors of the University of Brighton that the Council provide a definitive in principle signal of support for the proposed secondary free school and for the University’s sponsorship arrangements before the university committed to the detailed work required to prepare an application to the Department for Education.

164A.2  Councillor Shanks noted that there were bulge classes currently in some primary schools in the city that would, in time, need additional secondary schools places, she felt the option for a university supported secondary school was appropriate. It would also be important to ensure the school had an appropriate admissions policy.

164A.3  Councillor Morgan welcomed the report and noted that the need for additional secondary school places had been important for some years; whilst a local authority lead school would have been the most preferable option, an education provider led establishment was a welcomed option and the Council would work in close partnership with them.

164A.4  Councillor G. Theobald supported the proposal, noting his very high regard for Brighton University, whilst he would have preferred the authority to also have talks with other potential providers, he felt the proposal was more than appropriate.

164A.5  Councillor Randall shared Councillor G. Theobald’s view that Brighton University would be a good partner.

164A.6  The Chair then put the recommendation to the vote.

164A.7  RESOLVED: That the Committee notes the information in this report and resolves to inform the University of Brighton of its in principle support for the university’s proposal to submit an application to develop a secondary free school in the city.