Issue - meetings

To consider the report.

The Corporate Director for Commissioning and Partnerships introduced her report, which provided an overview of the current position relating to the enhanced cooperation between Dorset Council and the Dorset Centre of Excellence (DCOE), and the progress made in the recovery plan.

Officers responded to comments and requests for clarification, details included:

• It was anticipated that there would be some growth in terms of pupils after Easter for the summer term. The School was inclusive and worked exceptionally had to ensure that all needs were met by the school and that they could remain in this provision
• The Business Plan was being revised which had impacted the pace of delivery, however, this was being closely monitored and was not expected to impact the council’s capital strategy, as information continued to be shared as appropriate.
• There had been an intensive period of support for the school and Monitoring visits were frequent to ensure that the school is delivering on its aims and was well supported during its establishment phase and fully complying, once this had been achieved, it was agreed that monitoring would be done half-termly.
• Contrary to some comments that had been made in the media and speculation on social media, there was indeed a need for Dorset Council to increase SEND capacity in both North and East Dorset.

Noted