Issue - meetings

Recommended

It is recommended that the Executive Committee gives approval for the age range of Sunbeck PRU (Northallerton), Craven PRU (Skipton) and The Rubicon Centre (Selby) to be lowered to 5-16 at a suitable date aligned to implementation plans.

Considered – A report of the Corporate Director Children and Young People’s Service providing information gained through consultation and seeking approval to proceed with proposals to lower the age range to 5-16 of the three maintained Pupil Referral Units in North Yorkshire for excluded primary pupils and support reintegration.

The Executive Member for Education, Learning and Skills, Councillor Annabel Wilkinson, reported a significant rise in permanent exclusions of primary-age pupils from five children in 2021-22 to 25 children in 2024-25.  Consultation had taken place with parents, carers, education professionals and the wider community.

Members expressed concern at the rise in numbers and the need for early interventions was highlighted.  The Head of SEND confirmed that the proposal was a practical solution that also supported prevention and inclusion in mainstream settings.

Resolved (unanimously)

That the age range of Sunbeck PRU (Northallerton), Craven PRU (Skipton) and The Rubicon Centre (Selby) be lowered to 5-16 at a suitable date aligned to implementation plans.

Reasons for recommendation

The recommendation is based upon the rising demand across the county for this type of provision, the need for the council to have a long-term sustainable arrangement in place for primary aged children excluded from school and the legal implications should the council not have an arrangement in places that satisfies the duties placed upon it.