The Church of England has stepped into the row over closing primary schools on the Island.

The Bishop of Portsmouth, Rt Rev Jonathan Frost, has urged the Isle of Wight Council to pause its plans to consult on closing six schools, including three Church of England primaries. The council’s proposal aims to address surplus places, but Bishop Jonathan has voiced concerns about its impact on vulnerable communities and parental choice.

The bishop, along with the Diocesan Board of Education (DBE), opposes the closure of Oakfield in Ryde, Arreton and Brading primary schools, highlighting the unique contribution of C of E schools, which they argue provide a distinctively Christian ethos and vital community support.

Bishop Jonathan said a pause was needed to consider other options: “Church of England schools offer something vital and distinctive that could easily be lost,” he said. “They aren’t there to fill our pews or force religion onto people, but to serve their local communities, welcoming those of all faiths and none who come through their doors.

“I wish to resist the proposal to close Arreton, Brading and Oakfield C of E schools. I believe there will be damaging, unintended consequences on the wider economies.”

He also noted the disproportionate impact of the council’s proposal on C of E schools, three of the six earmarked for closure consultations, and the absence of church school options in suggested alternative schools.

Bishop Jonathan also criticised the lack of prior consultation by the council on the proposed use of diocesan land for potential alternative purposes. He added: “The use of land owned by the DBE is not a matter for the council to determine. Any use of our land and schools would have to be approved by the DBE and with my support. In the absence of consultation, I cannot imagine a situation where I would give that.”

While recognising the Island’s need for increased provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), Bishop Jonathan pointed out the existing contributions of the three C of E schools in this area. He offered to collaborate with local authorities to enhance these services, arguing for solutions that address surplus places while maintaining effective SEND provision.

Cllr Jonathan Bacon, the cabinet member for education, responded: “I thank Bishop Jonathan for his engagement with the consultation process. As with all representations received, what he has submitted will be given detailed consideration in the next stage of the process, during which all alternative suggestions and proposals that have been submitted will be examined and assessed as final proposals are developed prior to publication in December.”