By Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter
The Isle of Wight Council’s cabinet decided yesterday evening (Thursday) to go ahead with a consultation process that could mean the closure of six primary schools.
Director of children’s services, Ashley Whittaker, and cabinet member for children’s services and education, Cllr Jonathan Bacon, recommended a consultation on the reduction of surplus school places and expansion of Special Educational Needs provision.
The report’s proposed options for consultation include the closure of six primary schools, Cowes, Arreton (St George’s) CE, Oakfield, Brading, Wroxall and Godshill.
Pupils at closed schools would be able to join Gurnard, Barton, Greenmount, St Mary’s Catholic, The Bay CE, St Helens, St Francis or Niton, or select another school where there is space.
Both Cllr Bacon and Mr Whittaker have said the reduction in places is necessary to improve the quality of the Island’s education, and ensure the financial stability of schools and families. They claim the current oversupply is “inefficient”, “unsustainable” and holds back children’s educational outcomes.
The potential closures have, however, been met with widespread concern and resistance in the areas affected. As the cabinet meeting began inside County Hall, protesters with signs reading ‘Save education in Cowes and Gurnard’ and ‘Why are you closing my GOOD school?’ were assembled outside.
On Thursday morning, parents and children protested outside Brading Primary School.
Parents also protested outside Arreton St George’s Church of England Primary School on Monday afternoon.
Petitions have been gathering support in opposition to all six of the closures, with Jen Hughes’ petition to save Oakfield Primary School garnering over 1,000 signatures.
On Wednesday, the Church of England’s (C of E) Diocese of Portsmouth said parents of children at the three C of E schools must be offered an alternative C of E school that is easily accessible to families.
Isle of Wight Observer