Date: 20th January

All Parties Support Labour Call-In on Delce Schools’ Amalgamation

Following the Conservative Cabinet’s shock decision to go against officers’ recommendations, and call for the amalgamation of the two Delce schools, the Labour Group called in the decision.  This was heard at the Children’s Scrutiny meeting last night.

The two schools, which work closely together but wish to retain their independence, were represented by the Heads and Chairs of Governors- Ann Morris and Adrian Smoothie at the Infants, and Karen White and Richard King at the Juniors- and ward member Teresa Murray was also in attendance.

They spoke against the proposal as they had at the consultation meetings previously, and also at the first Scrutiny meetings where it was recommended to keep the two schools separate.

Cllr Murray said,
“Once again both the Heads and Chairs of Governors made clear, rational and animated speeches about why this plan is wrong for the schools.  Richard made the point that the schools initially felt it was a good idea, but on deeper investigation realised it wasn’t appropriate, and that everyone would lose out.”

“Whilst I’m delighted that the entire Scrutiny committee supported the plans to keep the schools separate, I’m annoyed that the Portfolio Holder couldn’t be bothered to attend, just like the last time this came to Scrutiny.”

“The Tories need to listen, and to take the right decision as soon as possible, as the staff and parents are finding the uncertainty hard to deal with.  These proposals are just cosmetic fiddling, and the Delce schools should be left alone.  Transition between schools is not a problem, and now that St Peter’s is staying open, it’s important for those children that the status quo remain, rather than just the children from that school having to transfer into a new school.”

Cllr Maple, Labour member on the Children’s committee, added,
“This is the second time that this Scrutiny committee has recommended to Cabinet that the two schools be kept separate.  Last night, all members from all parties supported the proposal, and in the face of this cross-party consensus, the Cabinet should take notice.”