Mansfield school for kids with behavioural problems faces the axe

A Mansfield school for children with behavioural and emotional difficulties is facing the axe - because fewer kids are being thrown out of the classroom.
The Learning Centre Oakdale. Kids playing basketball in the sports hall.The Learning Centre Oakdale. Kids playing basketball in the sports hall.
The Learning Centre Oakdale. Kids playing basketball in the sports hall.

Proposals to close Oakdale Learning Centre in Mansfield on 31st August are to be discussed by Nottinghamshire County Council on Monday.

Coun John Peck Chairman of the Council’s Children and Young People’s Committee said: “Over the past two years, primary and secondary schools have managed to halve the number of pupils who are permanently excluded from Nottinghamshire schools. And so far this academic year, figures are down by nearly a third on the equivalent period last year.

“Instead of permanently excluding children and young people with behavioural difficulties, we have encouraged schools to work together in partnership to provide improved opportunities for those who struggle in traditional settings, particularly in secondary schools.

Coun Peck said outcomes are better for the young people when they remain within their communities, both in terms of managing their behaviour, and in relation to academic achievement.

He added that the authority had considerable spare capacity in its pupil referral units, which were all receiving fewer permanently excluded pupils.

The closure proposal follows a three month consultation about the centre’s future with those affected.