By Isle of Wight Observer
The Isle of Wight Council is currently holding a series of public drop-in sessions which will focus on improving education provision and how school place planning is undertaken.
The sessions will look at the high numbers of surplus places that currently exist across the primary sector and the further increase that is forecast for future years.
Council officers will discuss the significant impacts that not managing the surplus has on the schools themselves and children’s education.
The events are taking place within the context of the development of a new education strategy for the Island which will address all aspects of the system and how we can improve the quality of education on the Isle of Wight.
These public events are open to everyone and offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by our local education system. The drop-ins are taking place across the Island as this is a ‘whole Island’ issue and potentially has an impact on all education providers.
Residents will hear about how data is collected and used to forecast pupil places, and also about how the shortfall in pupil places in schools affects academic outcomes, school budgets and recruitment.
These sessions are an information sharing opportunity to provide context and raise awareness about the local educational opportunities and challenges. They will be open to discussion, ideas and suggestions. All who are interested in education on the Island are welcome and encouraged to attend and share their views. We expect there to be related formal consultations later in the year, after specific proposals have been developed.
Upcoming drop-in sessions include: Monday, April 22, Ryde Academy, 5.30pm to 7.30pm – Wednesday, April 24, Cowes Enterprise College, 5.30pm to 7.30pm – Thursday April 25, The Bay (secondary site), 5.30pm to 7.30pm and Wednesday, May 1, Wroxall Community Centre, 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
Those who are unable to attend sessions or would like more information or to submit their views can email strategic.planning@iow.gov.uk.
