Archived decisions

REVIEW OF PRIMARY SCHOOL PROVISION IN THE ROMSEY AREA

1. The Executive Member has given authority to consult on changes to primary school provision in the Romsey area. Such a review is necessary because of a declining trend in primary school population within the area and a recent significant drop in numbers at Ampfield CE (Aided) Primary School. The schools included in the review will be Cupernham Infant School, Cupernham Junior School, Halterworth Primary School, Romsey Infant School, Romsey Junior School and Ampfield CE (Aided) Primary School. There will be a programme of consultations during the summer term with schools and their staff, governors and parents; Local County Councillors will be closely involved.

2. There are substantial numbers of surplus places at primary schools in the area. The total capacity of the schools taken together is 1522. Numbers of children are projected to reduce to 894 in 2009, which will represent a surplus of 41.3%. Action is being taken in any event to eliminate some of the surplus capacity, but even after taking this into account there remains over-provision to the extent of 32% by 2009. There are proposals for further residential development in the Abbottswood area to the north-east of Romsey which is likely to have a particular impact on the Cupernham schools. If this goes ahead it is likely to take the form of 500-1000 dwellings built from 2006 onwards, and the numbers of children likely to be derived from development on that scale could be accommodated within the school accommodation which would remain on conclusion of this review.

3. Quite apart from the excess provision of places in the area, there are local needs for early years and special needs provision in the area, and opportunities to make improved provision may emerge as a result of the review.

4. A detailed report on the outcome of consultations will come back for consideration by the Education Policy Review Committee and then for decision by the Executive Member for Education during the Autumn term. Any changes would then be the subject of statutory public notices and, should objections be received, a formal report to the School Organisation Committee before any proposed reorganisation could be implemented.