Agenda item

Report of the Director of Education Leisure and Lifelong Learning

1.    That having given due regard to the objections and the impact assessments in relation to equality, risk, community usage and Welsh language together with the legal implications, in line with Section 53 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013, Members determine to implement the proposal to make arrangements for pupils who would otherwise attend Cymer Afan Comprehensive school to receive their secondary education at Ysgol Cwm Brombil and to close Cymer Afan Comprehensive.

2.    That the date of implementation be 1 September, 2019.

3.    That the site and buildings be declared surplus to the operational requirements of the Education Leisure and Lifelong Learning Service.

The Chairperson thanked Local Members, Members of the Public and Officers involved in the programme.

The Head of Transformation gave Members an overview of the circulated report. 

Officers explained that the consultation process had been a rigorous and thorough process, and it was paramount to recognise all impacts.

Members highlighted parents’ concerns regarding the transition and travel to a different school.  Officers explained that they are committed to supporting pupils and will engage and work with the school community to provide assistance with transition arrangements.

It was noted that Officers would liaise with the Transport Section in order to ensure that correct transport checks are in place and to monitor home to school transport for the first year of travel.

Members emphasised that every participant in this process wants to provide the best education and start in life for the children in the Upper Afan Valley.

Decision:

1.    That having given due regard to the objections and the impact assessments in relation to equality, risk, community usage and Welsh language together with the legal implications, in line with Section 53 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013, the proposal to make arrangements for pupils who would otherwise attend Cymer Afan Comprehensive school to receive their secondary education at Ysgol Cwm Brombil and to close Cymer Afan Comprehensive, be approved.

2.    That the date of implementation be 1 September, 2019.

3.    That the site and buildings be declared surplus to the operational requirements of the Education Leisure and Lifelong Learning Service.

Reason for Decision:

1.    This decision is necessary to comply with the legislative requirements that provide for the implementation of the proposal.

2.    A decision to implement the proposal will enable the Council to:

·                 promote high standards and the fulfilment of every child’s potential; and

·                 meet its duty to secure efficient education in its area.

Implementation of Decision:

The decision will be implemented after the three day call in period.