Hearty fight to save Stiperstones School

The sentiments expressed by pupils at the Stiperstones CE School leave you in no doubt that they feel it is a very special place.

They were asked what the school means to them and their responses are on display. One writes "It feels like home". Others say "Fun and laughter" and "My parents came here and my friends are here". But before you reach the school, in hills about a dozen miles west of Shrewsbury, it's clear it is fighting for its future.

Signs along the narrow road urge support for the "little school with the big heart" which, with eight others, is threatened with closure by Shropshire Council.

A strong campaign is under way to keep it open.

After its last Ofsted inspection, the lead inspector wrote to pupils: "Stiperstones C of E Primary is a good school and a happy place for children."

I thought that too after paying it a visit.

There are just 29 youngsters on roll but acting head Sue Cooke - a Shropshire girl and proud of it - doesn't believe the children are being disadvantaged.

Judging by the high quality of their work on classroom walls and elsewhere, I have to agree. Sue described the school, which opened in 1872, as "very family orientated" and said staff worked really well as a team.

"We socialise together as well as work together," she said. "We have school events that are a big part of the community.

"The children work in mixed age groups and learn how to work and get on with children who can be younger or older than themselves. Although we are a small school I also think the children develop more independence." Sue added: "This is a lovely place in which to work and learn."

The consultation will end on April 8 and the Shropshire Council cabinet will make a decision in early May.

"We will keep fighting right up to the end of the consultation," said Sue.

There is no doubt the community is beh- ind the campaign. A coffee morning to raise campaign funds attracted between 300 and 400 people.

The school prospectus concludes the ethos of Stiperstones School is one of learning and achievement within an existing, caring and happy school community; where the highest standards of behaviour are expected from all.

The council must decide if this is worth losing for savings of at least £66,000 a year.

By Education Correspondent Dave Morris