Godshill Primary To Change Age Range - Impacting Early Years Provision

Godshill Primary School could soon stop directly educating two and three-year-olds, following a decision to raise its lower age range by two years.

The change, made by County Hall’s director of children’s services Ashley Whittaker, follows a public consultation and a formal request from the school’s governing body.

From the start of the new year, the school’s age range will be 4–11 years.

Council reports say the decision is part of a wider restructuring to address the school’s budget deficit.

The school will work with an external provider to deliver on-site Early Years education during a transitional period, aiming to ensure continuity for children while maintaining financial stability.

The public consultation, held from 26 September to 24 October, received seven written responses — one supporting the change and six raising concerns. Objections focused on the loss of local childcare provision, potential impacts on children’s development, and cost increases with a private provider.

However, the council noted that many parents and carers were positive about the move, highlighting that a new provider could expand Early Years childcare, including provision for under two-year-olds. Godshill Primary will introduce a transition period to address concerns and ensure smooth delivery of Early Years services.

The school has been contacted for comment.