What is a cluster?

 

A cluster is a group of local mainstream schools that work closely together to share resources, expertise and support for children and young people.

 

In Kirklees, all mainstream schools are now organised into 17 clusters, based on geography. This means the schools in each cluster are close to one another and can work together more easily.

 

Clusters began in September 2024 and will continue to develop over time. They are designed to help schools identify needs earlier, put support in place more quickly, and improve outcomes for children and families.

 

This approach has been developed alongside:

• Schools and early years providers

• The local parent and carer group (PCAN)

• Learning from other local authorities using similar systems

 

What does this mean for my child?

 

Clusters allow schools to:

• Share expertise, resources and good practice

• Work together to support children as early as possible

• Coordinate help around your child’s individual needs

 

Each cluster has access to a team of professionals, which may include:

• Educational Psychology

• Specialist teachers

• Early Support services

 

This means schools can get advice, guidance and support more quickly, helping children make progress and achieve the best possible outcomes.

 

Importantly, your child does not need an EHCP to benefit from cluster support.

 

What this definitely does not mean

• Cluster working does not remove your right to request an EHCP

• If your child already has an EHCP, this will continue to be reviewed annually as normal

• Cluster working is not a replacement for statutory support where this is needed

 

The cluster approach helps schools use resources flexibly so children can receive the right support at the right time.

 

How is funding used?

 

The local authority provides High Needs funding to each cluster.

• Funding is based on the number of children and level of need within the cluster

• Schools can plan together how best to use this funding

• Support can be put in place quickly, without waiting for long processes

 

Some support may not require funding at all, for example:

• Advice from a specialist teacher

• Support or resources shared between schools

 

This helps ensure funding is used fairly and effectively across the borough.

 

How do clusters work in practice?

• Clusters meet at least once every half term

• Schools discuss how to support children with and without an EHCP

• Children without an EHCP can still be discussed if needs are emerging

 

These meetings help ensure:

• Early identification of needs

• Fair and consistent support across schools

• Better use of SEND funding

 

Who supports clusters?

 

Each cluster is supported by a Team Around the Cluster, which may include:

• Educational Psychologists

• Specialist Teachers

• Early Support services

• The EHCP Team

 

Their role is to advise and support schools, not to replace statutory processes.

 

Cluster 14 – Local Schools

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St Thomas CE Primary School is part of Cluster 14.

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Other schools in Cluster 14 include:

• Birkby Infant and Nursery School

• Christchurch Academy

• Birbky Junior School

• Ashbrow School

• St Patrick’s Catholic Primary Academy

• Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary Academy

• Fixby Junior and Infant School

• Brambles Primary Academy

• North Huddersfield Trust School

• All Saints Catholic College