The Isle of Wight Council is set to review the future of school places across the Island after Reception pupil numbers fell by around 22% over the past 7 years.
A report due to go before the Children’s Services, Education and Skills Committee on Thursday (15th October) says there are now hundreds of surplus primary school places across the Isle of Wight.
There are currently 1,289 Reception places available for 1,042 children, leaving 247 surplus places.
The report says declining pupil numbers are placing increasing financial pressure on schools and making it more difficult to maintain sustainable provision in the long term.
Forecasts also suggest a growing number of schools could face budget deficits in the coming years.
Committee members are being asked to support a detailed review of primary school provision, overseen by a cross-party stakeholder group and supported by a specialist school place planning adviser appointed by the council.
The review will look at how school places can best be matched to the future needs of families and communities.
The Isle of Wight Council has stressed that the report does not propose closing schools at this stage.
Instead, officers are seeking approval to continue gathering evidence and develop a longer-term strategy for education and childcare provision across the Island.
A framework is being developed to assess schools against factors including pupil numbers, financial sustainability, educational outcomes, community impact, levels of need, transport considerations and the wider services provided to local families.
The review will also consider early years provision, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities services, school-age childcare and secondary education.
A further report is expected to return to the committee in January with recommendations for what the council describes as an optimal and sustainable education system.
Cllr Andrew Garratt, vice-chair of the Children’s Services, Education and Skills Committee, has said:
“Like many areas across the country, the Isle of Wight is seeing a significant decline in the number of children starting school.
“This is very challenging. This is why we want to take a careful and evidence-based look at how we provide education for future generations.
“The purpose of this work is to understand what our future education system should look like and to ensure that every child has access to a high-quality education in a sustainable school system.
“We recognise the important role schools play in the heart of their communities, which is why any future proposals would be subject to extensive consultation and engagement.
“We are committed to a transparent process that considers educational outcomes, community impact and the needs of children and families across the Island.”
Should specific proposals emerge in future involving reduced school capacity or school closures, they would be subject to consultation with parents, staff, governors, academy trusts, dioceses and local communities before any decisions are taken.
