The Welsh Education Minister must ensure that councils listen to the views of parents, teachers and governors over proposals to close primary schools in North Wales, according to an AM from the region.
Both Conwy County Borough Council and Denbighshire County Council are consulting on proposals to modernise primary schools in their areas. Under proposals by Conwy County Borough Council, up to 17 schools could close, while under Denbighshire County Council’s plans, seven schools are under review.
During questions in the Assembly last week, Clwyd West AM Darren Millar challenged the Education Minister Leighton Andrews to ensure that the voices of his constituents are properly considered during the consultation processes.
When asked to comment, Darren said:
‘A significant number of school across my constituency face the prospect of being closed and many people I have spoken to are concerned that decisions on the future of local schools have already been made and that their views do not count.
‘I urged the Minister to ensure that views of parents, teachers and governors are heard loud and clear by decision makers at both Denbighshire and Conwy Councils.
‘Local education authorities have a duty to listen and the Minister must ensure that they take this seriously.’
