Suzie Ellis, Conservative councillor for the Central Rural area of the Isle of Wight, has spoken of her disappointment by the outcome of the recent School Places Consultation.
Councillor Ellis attended one of the schools in her area earlier this afternoon to hear the announcement that Godshill and Arreton Primary Schools were named in the report going to Cabinet next week.
The councillor told OnTheWight,
“I am deeply disappointed and saddened by the outcome of the consultation, which has resulted in both Godshill and Arreton Primary Schools being named in the report going to Cabinet next week. The report seeks authority to proceed to Stage 2 of the statutory consultation process and to publish final closure notices.
“As well as the devastating impact this will have on staff, pupils, parents, and the wider community, I remain deeply concerned about the vast rural ‘desert’ this will leave at the heart of the Island. This decision threatens to erase vital community hubs and leave families in our rural areas with no access to local education.
“The school place planning strategy should be underpinning improved outcomes for our children and young people. Closing good schools that are currently viable as part of this strategy is completely counterproductive.”
Ellis: Concerned due process has not been fully followed
Councillor Ellis went on to say,
“I also remain concerned that due process has not been fully followed and that alternative proposals and concerns raised during the consultation have not been given genuine consideration.
“As the report is considered by the Children’s Services and Corporate Scrutiny Committees ahead of the final decision by Cabinet, I urge my fellow councillors to focus on the human impact—on the staff, pupils, parents, and communities who will bear the brunt of these closures.
“This is a time to prioritise compassion, thoughtfulness, and the needs of those most affected.”
The papers for next week’s Cabinet meeting are due to be published at 4.30pm today (Wednesday).
