Agenda item

Annual update from the Head of SEND Strategic Planning and Resource.

Considered

A report by Chris Reynolds, Head of SEND Strategic Planning and Resources.

Chris gave an overview of the report, highlighting the steps taken to ensure the best possible outcomes for SEND young people as they transition into adulthood. The number of SEND children and young people is continuing to increase both locally and nationally. Chris informed the Committee that the Executive agreed at their meeting on 16 December that the age range at 3 Pupil Referral Units (PRU) in Northallerton, Skipton and Selby will be lowered to 5-16 years.

Members asked the following questions:

Do we know how many SEND children are in elective home education (EHE) or have been suspended or excluded from school?

Regarding EHE, Children’s Services can record SEND figures at the pre-decision stage, but it is up to the families to declare if their child has additional needs. Many children who request to be home educated have mental health and anxiety issues, and the Council work hard to support them to still attend school.  Schools are encouraged to participate in the pre-decision meetings.

The reason a child is suspended or excluded may be due to an unidentified SEND issue, and parents can speak to Children’s Services about this. Schools have a duty to inform the Council of any exclusions, and in some cases, the Council has challenged their decision, and an exclusion has been overturned, with reasonable adjustments put in place so the child can remain in a school environment.

Children’s Services recognise that some schools have higher suspension and exclusion rates than others and is actively challenging them on this.

How can we make sure that those who are home educated are able to attend a school or college to sit their GCSE exams?

The Council can signpost to schools and colleges but if a child is home educated, the parents are responsible for securing a place and paying exam fees.  Schools and colleges are not legally obliged to provide a place.

How long does it take for an academy school to open (such as the new special school to be built on the former Woodfield Community Primary School)?

There is a lengthy process that an academy trust must go through, which includes securing a funding agreement from the Secretary of State. Arranging land transfers or lease agreements take at least 12 months. The consultation with families regarding the former Woodfield Community Primary School is due to start in early 2026, but an opening date is yet to be confirmed.

It is encouraging to hear that Supported Internships have doubled to 106 in the last year. Are there any further targets we are aiming for?

The Council is working to bring more employers and providers on board to increase placements and internships.

There will always be a demand for SEND provision in the Scarborough area.  Will there be more Targeted Mainstream Provision (TMP)?

Scarborough has been identified as an area of high SEND need and schools will be invited to apply.

Resolved

1)    That, the report is noted.

2)    That, an update is provided next year.