Primary school closure plans halted after backlash

A village primary school earmarked for closure next summer has been given a reprieve following a backlash from parents and carers.

Multi-academy trust Coastal Learning Partnership (CLP) proposed merging St George's in Langton Matravers, Dorset, with St Mark's in nearby Swanage amid falling pupil numbers.

Parents expressed "shock and panic" over the proposals and, at a public meeting last week, claimed the trust's consultation was flawed.

CLP said, following feedback, it had ended the consultation with immediate effect and there would be "no plans for structural changes" in the 2026/27 or 2027/28 academic years.

The two schools, which are just over one mile apart, receive the majority of their core funding from the government, based on the number of pupils enrolled.

The trust estimates, if no action is taken over the next 10 years, it could have a deficit of about £3m.

A letter to parents on Friday, signed by CLP chief executive Paul Howieson and chair of trustees Martin Copsey, said: "Continuing this consultation in its current form would not provide additional benefit and could risk extending concern and speculation around the current proposals.

"While this consultation is now being brought to a close, the underlying challenges that led us to begin this process remain.

"The reality is that both schools are facing substantial and ongoing challenges, which are recognised by staff in both schools, the diocese and the local authority.

"We must therefore continue to consider how best to secure a strong and sustainable future for both school communities."

Speaking to BBC Radio Solent, parent Melissa Best said the news was "just brilliant and everyone is absolutely delighted".

"We gave lots of different options at the consultations which they have taken on board and I don't think they had even considered a lot of the options," she said.

"We want to work together with Coastal Learning [Partnership].

"We want urgent and transparent engagement so they formally recognise us as a parent and carer body so we can work collaboratively to develop a sustainable future for the school and ensure the voices of families are central to the future decision-making."