Consultation launches on plans to close two Powys primary schools

Castle Caereinion Church in Wales School, near Welshpool, and Llanfihangel Rhydithon County Primary School, near Llandrindod Wells, will close under the plans.

Powys County Council is now asking people to share their views on the proposals.

If it goes ahead, the schools could close at the end of August 2022 with pupils transferring to their nearest alternative school.

Dr Caroline Turner, chief executive of Powys County Council, said: "We are committed to transforming the learner experience and entitlement for our learners and we will achieve this by delivering our Strategy for Transforming Education in Powys 2020-2030.

"Our strategy is ambitious, exciting and we believe it will give our learners the best possible start they deserve. "However, as we start to implement it, we will be faced with significant decisions as we look to address some of the challenges facing education in Powys which include the high proportion of small schools in the county, decreasing pupil numbers and the high number of surplus places.

Forefront

"This proposal has not been reached lightly but we have ensured that the best interest of the learners at these schools were at the forefront of our discussions and decision-making.

"If these schools are to close, then the learners would be attending schools that would be better equipped to meet the requirements of the new national curriculum and that could provide a wider range of educational and extra-curricular opportunities.

"However, it is important that the people of these school communities as well as the wider area have their say on this proposal. I would urge them to send their views so that they can be considered."

To respond to the consultation, visit en.powys.gov.uk/transformingeducation and follow the links.

Anyone who would like a paper copy of the consultation document is asked to contact the Transforming Education Team by phoning 01597 826618 or emailing school.organisation@powys.gov.uk

People can respond in writing by emailing school.consultation@powys.gov.uk or via post at Transforming Education Team, Powys County Council, County Hall, Llandrindod Wells, LD1 5LG.

The consultation will close on June 2.