Decision details

Leeds City Council is proposing to change the age range of Rothwell Primary School from 3-11 years to 4-11 years and permanently close the nursery at the school. This proposal follows a temporary closure of the nursery from September 2022.

If implemented, the proposal could have a significant effect on families in the Rothwell ward in Leeds as there would be fewer school nursery places available in the area.

The decision required would determine whether the proposal should progress to a statutory notice stage.

The Director of Children and Families submitted a report presenting details of a proposal brought forward to change the age range of Rothwell Primary School from 3-11 years to 4-11 years and permanently close the school nursery. The report noted that a public consultation on the proposal took place between 30 June 2023 and 21 July 2023, with the report summarising the responses received. Finally, the report sought approval to publish a Statutory Notice on the proposal.

In presenting the report, the Executive Member provided details of the proposal and an overview of the consultation responses, as detailed within the report, with it being noted that relevant Ward Councillors had not expressed any concerns in relation to the proposal. 

RESOLVED –

(a)  That the outcome of the public consultation for this proposal, as detailed within the submitted report, be noted;

(b)  That the publication of a Statutory Notice on the proposal to change the age range of Rothwell Primary School from 3-11 years to 4-11 years and to permanently close the school nursery, be approved;

(c)  That it be noted that the implementation of the proposal would be subject to the outcome of the Statutory Notice;

(d)  That the intention for a further report to be presented to the December 2023 Executive Board meeting, be noted;

(e)  That it be noted that the responsible officer for the implementation of such matters is the Head of Learning Systems.

The consultation will run from 30th June to 21st July 2023.

Parents/carers, staff, headteacher and governors of Rothwell Primary School, local early years providers, local primary schools including their parents/carers, local ward members, local MP and other stakeholders have been informed about the consultation.  During the consultation period there will be a meeting with the governing body and an informal drop-in session at the school. The headteacher has briefed staff at the school and invited them to attend the drop-in session.