Consultations on the future of education provision at three Ceredigion primary schools are now open and views are being sought.
In line with Ceredigion County Council’s School Review Policy, and due to a fall in numbers, budget deficit and a review of school provision in the area, Cabinet decided at its meeting on 10 July 2018 to cease to maintain education provision at Cilcennin Primary School in the centre of the county, and also at Beulah and Trewen Primary Schools in the south of the county. These decisions commence the consultation process which is now open until 7 November.
The Cabinet Member responsible for Learning Services, Councillor Catrin Miles said, “Whilst the Welsh Government sets the overall policy and legislative framework for school organisation, Councils have a responsibility for the planning and management of school places and must secure efficient provision so as to focus resources on improving education outcomes for young people.”
Full consideration have been included in these consultations to comply with the requirements of the updated Welsh Government School Organisation Code which comes into force on 1 November.
Councillor Catrin Miles continued, “It is essential that we consult fully on the proposals to cease education provision at Beulah and Trewen Primary Schools and Cilcennin Primary School. There were careful consideration of the relevant factors of education in the area by the Schools Review Panel and Cabinet to ensure the sustainability of the educational provision in Ceredigion for the future. This is now the opportunity for the local communities to comment on the proposals.”
Arrangements will be made to consult with pupils, including those of any affected schools. The information provided will be presented in such a way that is relevant to their age and level of understanding, which will allow them to reach an informed opinion.
The consultation papers can be seen on www.ceredigion.gov.uk/consultations. Views can be expressed or further questions asked, by either completing the response form at the end of the document or in writing to: school.reviews@ceredigion.gov.uk or Ceredigion County Council, School Services, 2nd Floor, Canolfan Rheidol, Rhodfa Padarn, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3UE. Respondents can call 01545 570881 for a paper copy. Views are to be received by 7 November 2018.
A Consultation Report will be presented to Cabinet for decision on the proposals on 18 December. If a decision was to be made to cease provision at the three schools, there would be a Statutory Notice open for objections in January. The Cabinet decisions contribute towards realising the Council’s corporate priorities of investing in people’s future. The Full Council will make any further decisions on these matters after the consultation process.
26/09/2018