‘Extremely badly handled’ — the Isle of Wight council has been slammed for the way it announced, and then consequently reversed, on a decision to close four primary schools.
Last month, the authority announced its intention to consult on the future of three schools — Cowes, St Mary’s Roman Catholic and Wroxall.
It was also looking to amalgamate Chillerton and Rookley Primary with its sister Godshill, effectively closing the smaller rural school.
U-Turn by Cabinet member
Due to the fierce backlash the proposals received, last week, the authority withdrew them and it is now seeking a different approach.
Dismay how proposals were communicated to public
Speaking at a scrutiny committee meeting last night (Tuesday), councillors expressed their dismay over the proposals and how it was communicated to the public.
Wroxall representative Councillor Rodney Downer said it had been extremely badly handled, causing consternation with parents, pupils, staff and the wider community.
He said it was very insensitive as it was announced the day before schools broke up and it seemed to be based on statistics, not worrying about people.
Andre: A lot of misunderstanding and confusion
Councillor Debbie Andre, the cabinet member for children’s education said there was a lot of misunderstanding and confusion and stressed no school closures had been proposed, only consultation.
She recognised lessons could be learnt from the way things were handled and apologised for how upsetting it may have been for all those concerned.
Love: Less than impressed with how information was released
Councillor Karl Love said he was less than impressed with how the information was released as it had caused a lot of concerns.
School closures, however, were inevitable, he said, and was long overdue.
Lever: The broader issue needs tackling
Councillor Joe Lever said the broader issue that needed tackling was the government funding model for schools which would continue to mean low pupil numbers would equal school closures.
The scrutiny committee recommended there should be more communication with schools before the proposals were published; more rigorous evidence on why those schools were chosen; and if other options had been considered and dismissed.
Downer: Damage already been done
Councillor Downer felt the damage had already been done due to the panic it has created as parents may look to move their child from the schools.
The matter will be discussed further at the council’s policy and scrutiny committee for children’s education.
Ellis: Disappointed and frustrated
Councillor Suzie Ellis, councillor for Central Rural, told News OnTheWight,
“I am disappointed and frustrated by this council’s continual failure to resolve the issue of pupil place planning.
“Headteachers shouldn’t be in a position where they are having to spend valuable time constantly battling ineffective decision making when they should be focusing on the immediate and ongoing needs of our children.”
Article edit
12.05pm 8th June 2023 – comment from SE added
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
