ITEM CMDSI2
CABINET MEMBER SCHOOLS IMPROVEMENT - 1 JULY 2008
APPLICATION TO OPEN A NEW FOUNDATION STAGE UNIT (NURSERY CLASS) AT RADLEY CE PRIMARY SCHOOL
Report by Children, Young People & Families
Introduction
1. Radley CE Primary School has completed the first section of the scheme for applying to open a Foundation Stage Unit (new nursery class). In order to proceed to the second stage the application requires the approval of the Cabinet Member for Schools Improvement.
Background
2. The proposal is to open a Foundation Stage Unit for a total of thirty nine 3, 4 and 5 year old children, some of whom will attend part time. There is currently a pre-school on site, but they support this application to transfer all administration and governance to the School. The aim is that simplified procedures and management will lead to better resourcing, less duplication and most importantly will raise the quality of teaching and learning for these youngest children.
Financial Report
3. The finance officer has assessed the financial position and
her report looks at the budget over the next three years. It shows it to be in
balance for all three years with a healthy balance by the third year. This
indicates the sustainability of the proposal assuming there will be 24 part
time 3 and 4 year olds as planned. Premises Report
4. The premises report confirms that the new purpose built unit currently being constructed will provide first class accommodation. There is sufficient space and toilets in the new building for the planned number of children, the environment is secure and it will have access to good outdoor provision and resources. There is access and provision for disabled children. A kitchenette and small office are included in the new building.
Quality Report
5. This report has considered the new environment which it states will offer high quality provision. Well qualified staff work well as a team and are reflective and keen to develop further. They offer an appropriate curriculum which gives children rich learning opportunities. The Head teacher is committed to improving opportunities for the youngest children and supports the staff well.
Responses from Informal Consultation
6. All the required consultations have been carried out and the responses received are positive and encouraging.
RECOMMENDATION
7. The Cabinet Member for School Improvement is RECOMMENDED to agree to the publication of statutory notices to take this proposal forward to the next formal phase.
JANET TOMLINSON Director for Children, Young People & Families
Background papers: Proposal form from school, reports from finance and premises officers and the advisory teacher for the area. These are available from the Contact Officer – or from Janine Foulkes-Williams, Business Support officer 01865 815181 Janine.foulkes-williams@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Contact Officer: Maggie Smith Senior Early Years Adviser Early Years and Family Support - 01865 428096 maggie.smith@oxfordshire.gov.uk
June 2008
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