Diane Barker, Chair of Governors of Godshill Primary School, shares this statement on behalf of Godshill Primary School Governing Body. This follows the decision to disregard an alternative proposal for the rural centre of the Island and recommend closure of Godshill School. Ed
We are devastated that our detailed alternative proposal for a single school in the rural centre of the Island to replace four (including the recently merged Chillerton and Rookley) schools has not, we believe, been properly considered by local authority officers and we urge Cabinet to challenge this decision.
The Local Authority state the closure of the chosen six schools will improve education outcomes for Island children. The Isle of Wight has the worst attainment record in the UK. How will closing Godshill Primary School, described by the local authority less than 12 months ago as a viable and sustainable school, with a recent Ofsted judgement as GOOD in all areas and fewer surplus places than many other schools and more children living in the local area than many other schools, in any way support improving Island outcomes?
Prove alternative has been considered
Governors will be urging cabinet members to seek evidence that our alternative proposal has been properly considered before being rejected as a viable compromise to the closure of four schools within a year, in the rural centre of the Island.
(The cost of transporting children from Godshill to other schools will cost tax payers over £197,000 per year.)
Call for Scrutiny Committee to challenge due process
Governors will also be urging the Corporate Scrutiny Committee and Cabinet members to further challenge additional concerns regarding due process.
We believe a lack of transparency, consistency of process, accuracy of data, fairness and equity for all schools and a disregard for due process can be evidenced throughout this consultation.
Governors will be supporting the call for a full Judicial Review and will be seeking intervention from the schools adjudicator.
