Decision details

This report will detail the outcome of consultation on proposals to amend the lower age range of two schools to permit the admission of 3 year-olds into the foundation stage with effect from September 2009: Greenvale Infant School, Chatham, and Abbey Court School, Rainham.

PLEASE NOTE: This meeting will be held at 3pm on 12 May 2009 at the St George's Centre, Pembroke Road, Chatham Maritime, Chatham

Relevant Overview and Scrutiny Committee: Children and Adults Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

PLEASE NOTE: This meeting will be held at 3pm on 12 May 2009 at the St George's Centre, Pembroke Road, Chatham Maritime, Chatham

79/2009 The Cabinet authorised the Director of Children and Adult Services, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Children's Services, to publish formal proposals including statutory notices, relating to the change of age range of: a) Greenvale Infant School, Chatham and: b) Abbey Court School, Rainhamin each case to permit admission of children from the age of 3 years with effect from September 2009.
80/2009 The Cabinet agreed to delegate authority to the Director of Children and Adult Services, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Children's Services, to determine whether to approve the proposals at the end of the statutory consultation period, if no objections are received.

The establishment of a Foundation Stage unit at Greenvale Infant School and Abbey Court School would be consistent with the Council's duty to secure an education place for all three and four year olds whose parents want one, including children with additional needs. As the admissions authority for community schools, Medway Council is responsible for determining whether to make a change to the published age range of the schools. The Council, with the support of the governing body and the head teacher of each school, consider that the change in age range to permit the admission of children from the age of 3 years will be the most effective means of raising standards of attainment at the schools and improving life chances of children in the area.