31 March 2025

 

Dear Parent/Carer

 

I hope that this letter finds you, your friends and family in good health

 

This is an update regarding the special school review.

 

On the 5th December 2024, I shared with you the actions of myself and other Kent Special Educational Needs Trust (KsENT) Headteachers and some families. I shared with you our decision to instruct legal representation to bring a claim in judicial review regarding the Special School Review.  This was against the decision of Kent County Council (KCC) to proceed with the redesignation of 7 special schools in Kent, including Laleham Gap.  We also instructed legal representation to review the process by which this was achieved as we felt the process had been lacking in detail, evidence and true collaboration. 

 

After considerable work by Headteachers, families and Legal counsel, a Pre Action letter was issued to KCC on the 14th February 2025. This decision was not taken lightly. However, our intention was to place children’s interests at the heart of all decision making.  

 

On 27^th March 2025, we received formal confirmation from KCC’s legal representative that the planned redesignation of the 7 identified special schools, would not be implemented.  KCC is considering the matter afresh and has not decided what any future decision will be. 

 

As Headteachers of Kent’s special schools we continue to recognise the need for change, and we welcome the opportunity to work collaboratively. We are optimistic that we can co-produce the systematic changes that clearly need to happen, ensuring they make the system better for all children with SEND.

 

Please be assured our highest priority will always be ensuring the very best education and outcomes for our children and we hope this action will allow time for true collaboration and planning in the interests of your child/children.

 

Yours sincerely

Les Milton

Headteacher