Consultation on plan to close two first schools

A CONSULTATION has been launched on plans that could see two Northumberland first schools close.

- JAMES ROBINSON Local democracy reporter

The proposals would see Mickley First School amalgamated with Broomley First School in Stocksfield on the same site, while Prudhoe Castle First School would join with Ovingham First School.

The reorganisation could begin as soon as next September, with plans to rename the schools to reflect the amalgamations.

The Cheviot Learning Trust, the academy chain that runs the schools, blames “low birth rates” in the area meaning “the educational landscape is changing”.

The trust, which has six first schools in the wider area, say the number of pupils entering reception classes has fallen significantly over the last six years.

In 2019, 122 pupils started reception across those six schools - by this year, that figure had fallen to 79.

Both schools are rated as “good” by the education watchdog Ofsted.

Coun Angie Scott, who represents the Prudhoe West with Mickley ward said it was vital that parents were engaged with and called for transparency throughout the process.

She said: “I was advised that parents would be informed of the trust's intention to consult on the future of both Mickley and Castle first schools.