The Cabinet member for Children’s Services, Education and Lifelong Skills, Cllr Debbie Andre, tonight announced that the decision relating to the closure of Chillerton and Rookley Primary School had been deferred.
At Tuesday’s Corporate Scrutiny Committee meeting Cllr Cameron Palin, the IW Association for Local Councils (IWALC) representative called for the decision to be deferred.
Andre: All avenues will be explored
Cllr Andre (Alliance) told the Cabinet meeting,
“When the Alliance administration formed, we committed to doing things differently and to be a listening administration.
“Following discussion, questions and a request to defer at Corporate Scrutiny last Tuesday, we have done further research and made further enquiries and as a result, Cabinet have decided to defer this item.
“I apologise for the ongoing uncertainty, but it is vitally important that we do everything we can to look into this new information. The matter will be brought back to Cabinet as soon as possible, but not until all avenues have been explored.”
Palin: Council can look seriously at trying to save the school
On hearing the news announced at tonight’s Cabinet meeting, Cllr Palin told News OnTheWight,
“I am thrilled that Cllr Andre has listened to myself and the residents of Chillerton and Rookley.
“The decision to defer the closure means the council can look seriously at trying to save the school and now approach the Island Free School to see if they are interested.”
Had a year to come forward
At Tuesday’s Scrutiny meeting it was explained by the education officer Steve Crocker and Cllr Andre that the Island Free School (IFS) had not made an application to the Regional Schools Commissioner to take on responsibility for a new school – a process they must complete if looking to federate the primary school.
Cllr Andre told the meeting that IFS had had a year to come forward, but hadn’t.
Palin: Thank you for listening
Cllr Palin went on to say,
“It’s clear the Alliance administration is listening and what I had to said on behalf of IWALC members in Corporate Scrutiny was really influential in changing Cllr Andre’s mind.
“This reinforces the role IWALC plays and that I was able to ensure Chillerton and Gatcombe parish councils as well as the communities voice was heard loud and clear.
“I thank Cllr Andre and the cabinet for listen and for making the correct decision to defer this evening.”
Ellis: New information?
Cllr Suzie Ellis (Con), the IW councillor for Central Rural, told News OnTheWight,
“Whilst grateful that the Cabinet Member is taking further time to consider the options for the future of Chillerton and Rookley Primary School, I am concerned for those children, parents, staff, governors and wider members of the community who have already waited so long for a decision.
“I am keen to understand from the Cabinet Member whether she is in receipt of additional / new information which justifies this delay.”
