Independent report published on secondary school planning for Shoreham

An independent review, commissioned by West Sussex County Council to gain a full understanding of the situation regarding secondary school places in the Adur district has been published today.

The report provides details on actions that the County Council could have taken to help reduce the impact on the Shoreham community.

Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Learning and Skills said: “We fully accept the findings from the independent report, which we consider to be thorough and extensive in its analysis of the situation and takes into consideration the complexities of the roles and responsibilities of local authorities in providing sufficient school places.

West Sussex County Council remain committed to ensuring that every child in West Sussex has the opportunity to fulfil their potential in education.”

Following publication of the report West Sussex County Council are taking actions to help rectify the situation for future years.

These actions include:

• Engagement with schools who are their own admissions authority to influence policy change where it could benefit a significant number of children and families
• Providing sufficient notice and information to parents in any areas where pressures on school places could result in a number of families not receiving one of their three preferences
• A review of the eligibility to Home to School Transport assistance

For any parents and carers currently applying for secondary school places for the next academic year, applications are open until midnight on 31 October 2023. The Council’s admission’s team is available to provide support and information. Further details can be found on the West Sussex County Council website.