Latest round of consultation on schools’ proposals begins

The latest round of consultation on proposals to change the current structure of schools in Shropshire begins today (Monday 16 May).

This six week statutory period follows consultation which has taken place on an unprecedented scale to look at the future of education in the county.

During the statutory consultation, which runs until 24 June 2011, people are invited to submit statements in favour of, or opposing proposals to close six schools and extend the age range of one school.

The council’s Cabinet agreed on 4 May 2011 to move forward with statutory consultation on these proposals and deferred decisions on three further proposals while alternative solutions are investigated.

Councillor Aggie Caesar-Homden, Cabinet member for schools said:

“We have reached this stage of statutory consultation after working alongside schools, their communities, the diocese and partners for the last 12 months to look at the challenges facing our schools and ways to address these.

“This statutory consultation asks for views on whether people are for or against each proposal which has been brought forward – and their reasons for this.

“This does not mean we have stopped working with schools to look at alternative solutions to the proposals to close schools. We cannot stay as we are – we have to address the issues our schools are facing but if viable and sustainable alternatives are developed there is still time to look at these.

“We listened during the most recent consultation as can be seen in deferring some proposals to investigate alternatives further – and we are still listening. Cabinet can agree not to proceed with any particular proposal and a new proposal can be put forward.

“No-one wants to close schools and we are continuing discussion on different options, alongside this consultation, which still ensure we can provide excellent education for all our children.”

Representations on the proposals should be in writing and can be sent by email to educationforshropshire@shropshire.gov.uk or by post to Education for Shropshire, Shropshire Council, The Guildhall, Frankwell Quay, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY3 8HQ.

Cabinet will discuss the results of the statutory consultation and decide on 20 July 2011 whether to proceed with each proposal.