Have your say on the amalgamation of Seaton Valley schools

13 Oct 2021 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

Northumberland County Council’s Cabinet have approved a consultation process on proposals to amalgamate Seaton Sluice Middle School with Whytrig Middle School in planned new buildings shared with Astley High School.

Consultation has begun today, Wednesday 13 October and will run for six weeks.

Parents, carers, pupils and those with an interest are now being asked for their thoughts on the proposals.

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Children’s Services, said: “This is an opportunity for Northumberland’s residents and families to have their say.

“We are committed to investing in our schools, and so I encourage you to take part in the consultation to ensure we are investing in the right way.”
Funding has already been allocated to create new buildings, bringing Astley High School and Whytrig Middle School together and this proposal offers the chance for Seaton Sluice Middle school to join them.

The Seaton Valley Federation of Governors support the proposal seeing it as a means of ensuring continued high-quality education and community provision in the Seaton Valley.

Cath McEvoy-Carr, Executive Director for Adult Social Care and Children’s Services, said: “The proposal put forward to Cabinet takes into consideration the wider benefits of amalgamating the three schools; aiding a smoother transition process, the chance for all students to have access to a modern learning environment and a new provision for students identified with special needs.

“As the local education authority, we have to consider all options in education improvement and by bringing this proposal forward to consult with those who will make best use of these facilities we will be able to ensure that any plans going forward will be in the best interests of our children and young people for years to come.” 

You can view the full report and have your say at https://nland.uk/SeatonValley-Consultation

The consultation runs from Wednesday 13 October for a 6-week period. It will close on Wednesday 1 December.