On Air Now Non Stop Music Midnight - 7:00am Liam Payne - Teardrops Schedule

Isle Of Wight's New Education Lead "Very Concerned" Over Cowes School Places

The Isle of Wight's new education lead says she's "very concerned" over school places at Cowes Enterprise College.

Seventeen families failed in their appeals to win a place, despite some living within walking distance.

Cllr Debbie Andre, who took up the role as cabinet member for education on Wednesday, says she's looking at what can be done.

Cllr Andre told Isle of Wight Radio:

"I am very concerned about this situation, which I have inherited, and I understand that it's causing a great deal of anxiety and stress to both students and their parents.

"I am speaking to Council Officers to find out how this has happened and what can be done."

Yesterday (Friday), Isle of Wight Radio revealed the Independent Appeals Service had rejected all appeals to get into the school.

Parents, who live in the area, had previously pleaded with the Ormiston Academy Trust to accept their children.

The school initially said it wouldn't take more than its PAN of 210. It's believed funding was an issue.

Families argued that other secondary schools, such as Ryde Academy and Sandown's The Bay CE Academy, have admitted extra students out of their own budgets.

Isle of Wight Radio is still awaiting a comment from the Ormiston Academy Trust.

More from Isle of Wight News