School facing 'significant challenges' at risk of closure |
Proposals to permanently shut Corpusty Primary School, based between Aylsham and Holt, and merge with other Synergy Multi-Academy Trust sites have been announced.
A letter sent to parents, carers and stakeholders outlines moving forward with a consultation to amalgamate the school with either Reepham Primary five-and-a-half miles away or Gresham Village School more than seven miles away.
Alastair Ogle (Image: Neil Hunt Photography)
The letter – which has been seen by this newspaper – was shared by Alastair Ogle, the Trust’s chief executive officer.
In the letter, he says Corpusty Primary is "facing significant challenges” and as a result needs to “progress with a proposal to amalgamate” the schools.
It has been widely reported that the number of children in Norfolk is rapidly reducing, posing significant challenges for schools as funding for them is based upon the number of children they have.
Associated documentation with the letter goes on to say the number of children attending Corpusty Primary has reduced significantly, due to a reduction of children in the catchment area.
At present there are 31 children on the role at the school. In 2014/15 and 2015/16 this number peaked at 103 students.
Attendance at Corpusty Primary is projected to continue to fall, with just 17 expected to attend for 2032/33.
Corpusty Primary School (Image: Newsquest)
The document adds: “The low numbers of children attending Corpusty Primary School mean that it is financially unviable in its present structure.
“Within the years 2025 to 2028 the cumulative deficit will be £300,860.00.”
If the closure goes........