Request:
Please could I request all supporting documentation referring to the Langley first school and Appletree gardens merger specifically the following;
Current floor plans of the Appletree gardens building.
Proposed floor plans for Appletree gardens for when merger is complete.
Any plans for internal alterations / extensions to the Appletree gardens site.
All data regarding current class sizes in terms of pupils and planned class sizes for
after the merger.
Response:
1. We are withholding the requested school floor plans under Section 38(1)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act 2000. This exemption applies where disclosure would, or would be likely to, endanger the physical or mental health or safety of any individual.
In this case, releasing detailed building layouts could compromise the security of the premises and pose a risk to pupils, staff, and visitors. Schools are considered sensitive environments, and we have a duty to protect the safety and wellbeing of those on site.
As Section 38 is a qualified exemption, we have conducted a public interest test. While we recognise the importance of transparency, we believe that the risks to health and safety outweigh the benefits of disclosure in this instance.
2. There are currently no plans to physically alter the building at Appletree Gardens First School. If the proposals move to Statutory Consultation, we will work with school leaders to consider the layout and use of the existing spaces within the building.
3. Options to consider alteration to existing space utilisation has not yet been held with Appletree Gardens First school.
4. Information not held. We do not hold information relating to the current class structure at Appletree Gardens First - this information is held by the school. We have the Pupil Census information as at January 2025, which is included in the consultation pack. Should the proposal be approved and implemented, we will work with school leaders to structure class bases, in line with Class size legislation.