We are proposing to expand some primary schools in the borough. It follows a recent consultation with schools asking them which would be suitable for expansion.
The report, approved by Councillor Ann Cunliffe, the Executive Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, this week identifies opportunities to expand some schools. Proposals to develop the feasibility and costs for each school will now be developed.
In recent years there has been an increase in demand for school paces particularly focused on areas in the north, central and north east of the borough. Despite the significant increase in capacity, demand for primary school places remains high in some areas of the borough and many schools in these areas are operating with class sizes in excess of their Planned Admission Numbers, particularly across KS2 where infant class limits do not apply.
In order to positively respond to the continuing demand for primary school places, especially the additional demand arising out of in-year admissions which affect all primary age groups, it is proposed to increase capacity at a number of schools in those areas where such demand is greatest.
Proposals are to look at whether it is possible to:
- Expand Gaskell CP School from 45 to 60 Planned Admission Number (PAN) and SS Osmund and Andrew RC Primary from 50 to 60 PAN within the 2018/19 academic year
- Expand Markland Hill CP school from 45 to 60 PAN and Bolton St Catherine’s CE Academy from 30 to 60 PAN for the 2019/20 academic year or sooner if required.
- Expand Gilnow CP school from 30 to 45 or 60 PAN and Moorgate CP from 30 to 60 PAN to be made available within 2020/21 or sooner if required.
- Support the future expansion of Walmsley CEP school to two form entry once approved housebuilding has commenced at the Last Drop site.
All the proposals are subject to feasibility studies and what capital funding being available. The feasibility studies will look at a range of factors such as the suitability of the land, traffic generation, and school travel plans.
“Certain areas of the borough are experiencing high levels of demand for places at popular schools,” said Councillor Ann Cunliffe.
“The capital funding has not been in place to meet this demand but after lobbying the government we’ve reached an agreement to access future Basic Need funding. This gives us the confidence to consider undertaking appropriate expansions where the demand is greatest.
“There is a lot of housebuilding at the moment in Bolton and the borough is popular for people to move here to access job opportunities such as at Logistics North. Businesses also want to invest so there is a need for schools and to look at the needs of our children.
“The proposals have been developed according to geographic need where the demand is greatest. There is pressure on school places and an urgent need to reduce class sizes. Children and their education are our priorities and we work very hard to plan ahead. It’s very rare for us to have to use temporary units which other authorities put in.
“Whilst it is good news that we have been able to draw down future funding it will affect what we get in the future for further expansions should they be needed.”