A Norfolk primary school could shut by the end of the year after its board called for closure to be considered.
Winterton Primary School has been rated by Ofsted as requiring improvement, has had falling pupil numbers, funding issues and difficulty in recruiting a permanent headteacher.
Norfolk County Council has now announced it will carry out a consultation on the school’s future until July 24 and, if the proposal is approved, Winterton Primary could close on December 31.
It is also proposed that the catchment of Hemsby Primary would be extended to cover Winterton.
John Organ, the chair of the Winterton Primary’s interim executive board, said: “This has been a very difficult decision to make this request, but pursuing the right direction for our pupils to be able to receive the best learning opportunities must always come first.”
A county council spokesman said: “The interim executive board of Winterton Primary has requested that the county council consults on closure of the school.
“The county council and the Department for Education explored a range of options, including discussions with a number of multi-academy trusts and local schools - but no practical solution could be agreed.
“Closure is proposed is because pupil numbers have reduced to the extent that funding is no longer sustainable and the school has been unable to secure a permanent headteacher.”
Responses are required by July 24 and the survey is available online at https://norfolk.citizenspace.com/childrens-services/winterton-and-hemsby.
A meeting will also be organised for parents, carers and members of the community.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here