Council To Review Future School Places

The Isle of Wight Council is to consider how it can respond to falling numbers of children starting school on the Island.

A report to the Children’s Services, Education and Skills Committee next Thursday (15 October) recommends a detailed review of primary school provision.

The council says the number of children starting Reception has fallen by around 22 per cent over the past seven years.

There are currently 1,289 Reception places available for 1,042 children, leaving 247 places unfilled.

The report warns that falling pupil numbers are putting increasing financial pressure on schools and could make it harder to maintain sustainable education provision in the future.

It also forecasts that more schools could face budget deficits in the coming years.

The proposed review would look at whether school places are in the right locations and meet the future needs of families and communities.

It would consider factors including pupil numbers, financial sustainability, educational outcomes, community impact, levels of need and transport.

The council says no school closures are being proposed at this stage.

The review would also consider early years provision, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities services, school-age childcare and secondary education.

A further report is expected in January, with recommendations on what the council describes as an optimal and sustainable education system for the Island.

Any future proposals to reduce school capacity or close schools would be subject to consultation with parents, staff, governors, academy trusts, dioceses and local communities.