“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.
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.
Speaking at the children’s education meeting last night (Thursday), 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, schools undermined as proactive parents would move their children and communities permanently damaged.
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.
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, Cllr Debbie Andre, said there are next steps and an update is coming shortly.
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.”
Hovertravel Services Remain Suspended Due To Unexploded Ordnance
Local Business Gives Back By Supporting Surf Charity
Local Energy Company Seeks Rooftops For Community Solar Projects
Who Will You Nominate For 50th Isle Of Wight Sports Achievement Awards?
Isle Of Wight Churches Launch Urgent Fundraising Appeal For Debt Help On The Island
Plans Afoot To Improve Isle Of Wight Cycling And Walking Routes
Appeal Following Report Of Assault In Cowes
Witness Appeal Following Fatal Incident On Isle Of Wight
Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Attends ‘Man In River’ Emergency
Wightlink Releases Statement Regarding Suspended Services
Changing Rooms: Shanklin Hotel Set For Upgrades
'Plagued' Ryde Farmhouse Set For Demolition
Leeson Road To Re-Open This Sunday
Supergrass, Jess Glynne And Busted Among Latest Acts Announced For Isle Of Wight Festival 2025
Inspectors Appointed For Island Planning Strategy Examination
Islanders Floating Bridge Views Sought
Two More Years Of Restoration Works Confirmed For Isle Of Wight Quarry
RSPCA Isle Of Wight Appeal Launched To Help Island's Most Vulnerable Animals This Christmas
Appeal For Information Following Assault At Crown Pub In Ryde
New Entrance And Kitchen Mooted For Freshwater Bay Hotel
