Update January 2008: In response to this consultation: there were 54 responses to the consultation.  44 in agreement and 10 which either disagreed with proposals or had significant concerns. 

The Executive Member for Children and Young Person’s Services recently considered the proposals alongside the responses and subsequently determined, as agreed by all elected members, to proceed to the next stage in the statutory process: the publication of a public notice.  It is anticipated that the public notice will be published on Thursday 10 January 2008.

Woolacombe School currently has space for 130 pupils but has been oversubscribed for the last 4 years.  Forecasts indicate that this trend is likely to increase, resulting in an overall number in attendance at the school of 175 plus pupils.  This increase is classed as a significant enlargement and therefore we are required to consult on this change under statutory requirements.  Should the numbers be as forecast the number on roll will increase in forthcoming years up to 179.  In summer 2007 the number on roll was 162 - whilst the consultation figures appear stark (because they quote the Net Capacity figures for the school, up from 130 to 175) the increase in pupil numbers is not actually as great.  Consequently the number of parents dropping off/picking up pupils should not be greatly increased, especially as some will already have siblings at the school.

We would like to hear your views on this proposal by 5pm on Friday, 30 November 2007. Once these have been received the responses will be considered.