This report presents the findings from a viability analysis of The Lodge at Coley pre-school nursery in Reading and seeks approval to carry out consultation on a proposal to close the facility and to initiate discussions on its possible use as additional provision for children with SEND.

The Executive Director of Children’s Services submitted a report seeking delegated authority to go to external consultation on the proposal for the closure of The Lodge at Coley Pre-School nursery. 

The report explained that The Lodge was a small 16 place nursery for the use of 2 year-old children only, operating from one room on the grounds of St. Mary’s and All Saints Primary School.  A viability analysis of The Lodge had been undertaken following an inadequate Ofsted inspection in June 2022.  After the inspection The Lodge had received a programme of improvement which included senior staff being seconded to The Lodge to provide additional support.  When re-inspected in December 2022 the facility had been graded good in all areas.  However, the Lodge had never run at full capacity and the viability analysis results showed that significant risks remained around both the quality of day-care and financial viability of the service that would require considerable additional ongoing investment.

The report stated there was a small risk in closing the unit due to the changes around places for 2-year-olds announced by the government earlier in the year.  However, four additional childcare providers would be in place later during the year and would offer 300 additional places across Reading.

The report also sought delegated authority for discussions to take place with the headteacher of St Mary and All Saints Primary School for the possible use of the facility as an additional provision for children with SEND.  Based on the outcomes of the consultation and discussion with St Mary and All Saints Primary headteacher, delegated authority was also sought to decide on the future of the facility.

Resolved –

(1)      That the current service model for The Lodge at Coley pre-school nursery presented quality and financial risks be agreed and that the Executive Director of Children’s Services be authorised to commence consultation on the impact of the potential closure of The Lodge at Coley;

(2)      That the Executive Director of Children’s Services be authorised to discuss with the headteacher of St Mary’s and All Saints Primary school regarding the possible use of the provision for a SEND facility with the school;

(3)      That the Executive Director of Children’s Services in consultation with the Lead Councillor for Children’s Services be authorised to decide on the future of the facility based on the outcomes of (1) and (2) above.