“At best, it seems incompetent and at worst it seems calculated” — Frustration and anger continues to surround the Isle of Wight Council’s U-turn on primary school closures.
Questions have been asked about the procedure followed over proposals to close three Island primary schools and the subsequent reversal.
Last month, the Isle of Wight council announced it would consult on the potential closures of Cowes, St Mary’s and Wroxall primary schools to deal with surplus pupil numbers.
Plans withdrawn
Before any consultation could begin, but after it made the intention public and suffered backlash, the authority withdrew proposals, saying it would take a different approach.
Now, two weeks after the announcement, parents are still reeling from the news and the council has been accused of already causing damage.
“At best seems incompetent and at worst seems calculated”
Speaking at the Policy and Scrutiny Committee for Children’s Services, Education and Skills meeting on Thursday night , one parent — whose two children go to Cowes — said the timing of the proposal and subsequent U-turn at best seems incompetent and at worst seems calculated.
He said half term had been ruined and schools undermined as proactive parents would move their children, permanently damaging communities.
The issue of surplus school places is one the council is trying to find a solution for, but is facing criticism from headteachers and governors for taking so long to do so.
Where’s the strategic plan?
Simon Richards, a representative of governors, questioned when the strategic plan would be provided.
He said it had been almost a full academic year since it was first raised with the council and it was another year to which it had been to the detriment of children’s education.
Education lead, Councillor Debbie Andre, said there are next steps and an update is coming shortly.
Quigley: Frustration exists on every side
Cllr Richard Quigley, chair of the scrutiny committee, said it is unsatisfactory and frustration exists on every side and needs resolving as soon as possible.
He said,
“This is not about apportioning blame, it is about apportioning action and for the sake of children, parents, teachers and support staff, when we get to September, it shouldn’t be the case of just discussing it again, it should be the case of saying this is the only action.”
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
