People in Cardiff have been invited to give their views on the proposed closure of a secondary school and transfer of pupils to another school.
Cardiff Council are proposing to transfer Glyn Derw High School, in Caerau, to the Michaelston Community College site in Ely from January 2016. The plans seek to address the challenges faced by both schools, including poor outcomes, surplus places, significant budget deficits and sub-standard accommodation for pupils.
Glyn Derw and Michaelston were federated under one governing body and an executive headteacher in 2011, but have remained on separate sites. The exceptions are year 10 and sixth form students, who are taught on the Michaelston site.
Between them, the two schools had 692 surplus places in September 2013. This has impacted on funding and has led to a combined revenue deficit of about £1 million.
Under the proposed plans, they would remain as schools in their own right under the existing federation, but would share the Michaelston site. The Glyn Derw site will be proposed for demolition.
The council have warned there may be traffic congestion around the Michaelston site following the transfer, but the council has promised to work with the school’s governing body to develop a travel plan.
The public consultation is being held until March 25. The council will be holding a series of meetings and drop-in sessions for people to learn more about the proposals, ask officers any questions, and make comments to help the council decide how to proceed.
The first meeting will take place on Wednesday March 4, at Western Leisure Centre, from 4pm – 6pm.
Councillor Julia Magill, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “One of our key education priorities for children and young people in Cardiff is a good level of educational attainment.
“The council is committed to breaking the link between disadvantage and educational attainment and that all children should receive a good education regardless of where they live in the city.
“We are keen to hear the views of the public about this proposal and it is essential that people in the community have their say and are able to ask any questions during this consultation period, so I would encourage people to visit the drop-in sessions and public meetings.”
Caerau Councillor, Peter Bradbury said: “We have got the full support of the governing body for this project. It is important that both schools have a sound financial future.”
Residents can also give their views on the plans by completing the online form at: www.cardiff.gov.uk/21stCenturySchools.
