"Over the past two years, decisions on Bradstow's behalf have too often overlooked the best interests of the children. Many have been placed miles from their families, some now living in children's homes without education, others receiving only a few hours of teaching each week and families uprooted simply to stay close to their child."
"to make an informed decision about academisation"
"the only option, the responsible course of action"
"keep many more children closer to home and within their communities"
Bradstow School, a residential school for autistic children in Kent, will close on 31 December after Wandsworth Council's cabinet approved the closure because of ongoing financial challenges. The council delayed a decision to allow governors time to pursue academisation, but the Department for Education rejected the proposal and advised proceeding with closure. A public consultation concluded in September and the recommendation was signed off. Twelve pupils remain at the school, including one from Wandsworth. School leaders said the school could have been financially viable if allowed to admit new pupils and asked for more time to consider academisation. The council said all options were explored and closure allows focus on local specialist provision to keep more children closer to home.
Read at www.bbc.com
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