Two schools saved!... for now

Castle Caereinion and Pontrobert Primary Schools (pictured) appear to have been saved, but Powys County Council will push ahead with its plans to close Trefnanney School near Guilsfield.

The new Powys Cabinet will be asked to approve formal consultation to close Trefnanney when it meets in July, along with Cwmdu, near Crickhowell, and Dolfor near Newtown.

 

But the Cabinet is advised to take no further action at four other schools – Castle Caereinion; Ysgol Pontrobert, Llanfihangel Rhydithon and Nantmel C in W School– but would continue to monitor pupil numbers and look at ways of reducing surplus places.

 

The community of Trefnanney could now be consulted over the future of their small school if the recommendation to close is approved.

Cabinet Member for Schools, Councillor Stephen Hayes said: “The authority has been reviewing a number of small schools to make sure it is making the most efficient use of resources and providing a sustainable primary school structure.

“The number of pupils entering our schools is falling and we are facing a significant problem of surplus places. We need to provide a school network that continues to deliver a high standard of education within available resources.

“Funding a small school is significantly higher than the county average causing pressures on the whole system. The average funding per primary school pupil is £3,600 but that figure rises to nearly £6,000 for some small schools – a figure that cannot be sustained.

"If we close the three schools we will reduce surplus places and reduce spending by up to £300,000 in a full year – money that can be re-invested in other schools. Closing a small school is not an easy option but it is a decision that has to be taken in the best interests of all our pupils.”

If the closure recommendation is approved by the Cabinet, formal consultation will start with the schools, their governing bodies, parents and local community. If final approval is given Trefnanney School could close in August 2012.