Following consultation on the future model of schools in Berwick, councillors are recommended to approve the publication of statutory proposals for a two-tier system of education.  
 

Northumberland County Council has pledged almost £40m to invest in schools in the Berwick Partnership as part of a county-wide capital programme, including a new building for Berwick Academy, as well as increased specialist, post-16 skills and post-18 provision.  
 

Consultation has taken place to ensure the school system is sustainable and will deliver the best outcomes for young people following a decline in pupil numbers, an increase in surplus places and children leaving the partnership for neighbouring schools in Scotland and Alnwick.  
 

A report on the findings of the latest round of consultation, published today (Tuesday April 25), recommends that a two-tier system of primary and secondary schools is in the best educational interests of children and young people.  
 

Under the proposed model, the partnership’s first schools would expand their age range up to 11 to become primary schools from September 2025, and Berwick Academy would become an age 11 to 18 secondary academy from September 2026. 
 

Berwick Middle School, Glendale Middle School and Tweedmouth Community Middle School would close on August 31 2026. 
 

The recommendations include that Belford Primary School moves from the Berwick Partnership catchment to the greater Alnwick Partnership from September 2024. 
 

Specialist provision would also be expanded with 70 new places created across the partnership for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) specifically for those with primary needs in Social, Emotional and Mental Health and Autism where there is a growing need. 
 

During the consultation, closures of some first schools were also under consideration but the recommended two-tier model would keep all first schools open.  
 

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Children’s Services, said: “This is a once in a generation investment that will transform education in the Berwick Partnership for generations to come.  
 

“It’s vital that we first make sure that we have a sustainable school system that will work best for our young people now and long into the future.
   

“This report is the latest step in the process, and I’d like to thank everyone who has taken part in the consultation so far.  
 

“Every comment has been considered and it is very clear that all those involved have the very best interests of pupils and families at heart. 
 

“If these recommendations are approved, everyone will once again have the chance to share their views.” 
 

Audrey Kingham, Director of Children’s Services, Northumberland County Council, said: “The Council has a duty to support schools to improve standards, support continuity of education, support schools to be financially viable and sustainable and support smooth transition of pupils between schools.   
 

“We also have a duty to provide best value to residents in relation to investment in school buildings.   
 

“Following the two phases of consultation, the local authority now has a responsibility to provide system leadership regarding school organisation and therefore a clear recommendation to propose a two-tier structure for Berwick Partnership is set out in this report. 
 

“If the report’s recommendations are approved, then the next steps in the process will enable everyone involved to once again to express their views and have their voices heard on how we can secure the best education and outcomes for our children and young people.”  
 

The report will be discussed by councillors at the Family and Children’s Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday May 4. It will then be considered by Cabinet on Tuesday May 9. 
 

If approved, a four-week statutory consultation will take place, with a report to Cabinet on its findings and a final recommendation in July.

Read the full report here. 

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