The SEND Big Plan sets out our strategy to improve our local provision for children, young people and families with additional needs. As part of this strategy we need to secure sufficient local Alternative Provision (AP) to meet the needs of our children and young people now and in the future.
An application was made to the DfE in 2022 to establish an AP Free School. Following recent communication from the DfE, we were informed we have been successful in this application. This report will present the two options that the DFE have made available to the Local Authority in relation to securing government funded Alternative and will require a decision in relation to those options.
There is ongoing engagement regarding Alternative Provision with the Local Area Partnership including via the Alternative Provision Board, Places Access and Inclusion Committee of the Education and Learning Partnership Board and Schools Forum.
Background papers; Alternative Provision - Cabinet Report - Dec 22 - final.pdf
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Affects 2 or more wards;
Decision status: Recommendations Approved
Wards affected: (All Wards);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 09/01/2026
Decision due: 10 Feb 2026 by Cabinet
Lead member: Portfolio Holder - Finance & Regeneration, Portfolio Holder - Children's Services (Statutory responsibility for children), Portfolio Holder - Education
Lead director: Executive Director for Children and Families (DCS)
Contact: Jo-Anne Sanders, Service Director - Learning & Early Support Email: jo-anne.sanders@kirklees.gov.uk.
Members/Officers Involved: Cllr Turner, Cllr Kendrick, Cllr Rylah, Jo-Anne Sanders, Tom Brailsford