The "Working Group" met last Wednesday 10th June at 7pm
The meeting was facilitated by Louise Trewavas, Communications & Consultation Manager, Finance and Schools Support, Children Schools and Families (CSF) and Chaired by Sarah Bourne, Head of Property and Contracts at Camden Council. Cllr Andrew Mennear reported progress as Richard Lewin was unavailable due to health reasons.
Louise Trewavas reported that the number of unplaced children has decreased from the 133 to 127 (latest figures from Louise as of 12th June indicates that the figure has fallen now to 107).
Cllr Andrew Mennear reported that CSF were "in talks" with five schools in North / North West Camden about the possibility of having temporary "portacabin" classrooms to be installed ready for September. Currently, it is believed that all of these "five" schools are community schools. The names of the schools will be confidential until negotiations have been completed.
The Council estimate that 2-3 temporary classrooms of 30 children will be needed. The purchase order for the "portacabins" classrooms needs to be placed within the next 2 weeks, even though the sites may not been confirmed. The Council intends to feedback further progress and the names of schools electing to take part in the "portacabin" scheme when the "Working Group" meets again on 23rd June at Swiss Cottage Community Centre at 7pm, TBC. But it must be emphasized that only the governing body (the School Governors) of the local schools can make that decision.
The overall feeling by all present with a notable exception from Cllr Alexis Rowell was that some welcome progress had been made.
Author: Nigel Rumble
