Schools’ future under the spotlight

Herefordshire Council is seeking views on the future of primary schools in the areas of Kington, Weobley and Wigmore.

In order to plan for the future and deal with falling number of pupils requiring school places, the Council is conducting a countywide review of schools.

The first area to be reviewed includes Kington, Weobley and Wigmore where there are 15 primary schools, many with available spaces.

Over the next few years, the number of pupils in the area is projected to fall by almost 150 which would result in a reduction of government funding of around £300,000 or the cost of about ten teachers.

Following responses from an initial consultation exercise, proposals have been issued to schools this week for further discussion.

Federations are being recommended for some of the schools, particularly those with very low numbers such as Brilley Primary School (21 children) and Dilwyn Primary School (34 children). Federations involve appointing one head teacher to manage the curriculum, teaching and learning of a number of schools. Savings are made on salary, shared resources and equipment and shared costs such as maintenance contracts for school buildings.

However, savings may not be enough to meet the shortfall so alternative ideas are encouraged.

Staunton-on-Wye Primary School currently has 64 children on role and is due to have a new three-classroom school and pre-school built. The proposals question the viability of this project and ask whether this would be at the expense of schools at Clifford, Eardisley, Weobley and Credenhill .

Councillor Don Rule, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Herefordshire is the third-worst funded authority in England, receiving around two per cent less per pupil than neighbouring authorities like Worcester and 21% less per pupil than Birmingham City.  Any reduction in the number of children requiring schooling results in even further reductions in funding.

“We will have fewer resources in the future and we want to make sure they are spent in the most effective way possible.

“We recognise the importance of schools within the rural communities, but it becomes increasingly difficult to make sure their children have access to the same activities as those in larger schools have.”

Schools, governors, parents and local organisations are being encouraged to respond to the proposals by March 31.  The responses will be analysed and final recommendations made to the Council after the local elections.