Schools' review launched

The views of parents, teachers, staff and other interested parties are being sought over the next 18 months as part of an extensive review of Herefordshire’s schools in light of falling pupil numbers.

The review is aimed at exploring how standards of teaching and learning in schools can continue to improve when pupil numbers fall.
 
Cabinet approved plans for the extensive review when it met on Thursday (March 16) after learning that the number of youngsters attending primary are projected to drop from 14,342 in 1999 to under 12,000 in 2016.

This demographic change will bring about a reduction in government funding forcing the local authority to address the issue.

There are no plans to close any schools but restructuring is essential if resources are to be used to their maximum potential.
 
As part of the county-wide review of school provision, parents, teachers, diocesan bodies and other interested parties are being asked their views on how schools should rise to the challenge.

The consultation will seek people’s views on possible solutions. These include one head teacher acting for three/four schools, teaching and non-teaching staff being shared between primary and secondary schools and partnerships being forged between schools and outside bodies.

The review is likely to last 18 months. A detailed document spelling out the situation and the need for change will be sent to schools, diocese and interested parties. People will be able to respond in writing to this document.

Public meetings will also be staged at individual schools. Dates and venues have not been confirmed at this early stage.   

Cllr Don Rule, Cabinet Member (Children’s Services), said: “The demographic decline of young people in the county is inescapable and falling rolls in schools are significant.

“Teachers, parents, staff and other interested parties will naturally feel uncertain and anxious about their future during this period of change.

“I want to reassure those affected that this review will help us plan ahead for the next 15 years to ensure our schools continue to flourish and remain among the best in the country. There are no plans to close any schools.

“By adopting this long-term approach we are displaying our commitment to education. The risks associated with not proceeding with the review are far greater.”