Schools Reorganisation

The papers include a school-by school explanation of what the proposals will mean, a timescale over which the reforms would be carried out and statistics showing why a change to a two-tier system offers the best opportunity to improve standards.

The report outlines a number of recommendations for members to consider. One is the appointment of an independent review panel of education professionals to look at the council's plans in areas where there has been significant response and concerns raised. The panel, who will have had no involvement in the current education reforms, will review the council's proposals and meet with local communities ahead of a report to the council's Cabinet by the end of February 2009.

Isle of Wight Council Director for Children and Young People Keith Woods said "The papers set out a clear and concise direction and timeframe for the proposed education reforms. This latest report clearly demonstrates that the council has listened during the formal consultation period. One example is the local community in Sandown suggesting that the amalgamation of St John's and Sandown Primary schools takes place across the two sites instead of just the latter one. This was a very valid idea presented to the council, and one we are proposing to take forward.

"Appointing an independent review panel to look at those areas of significant response will give the council and the local community an impartial and fresh look at parts of the proposals, which I am sure will be welcomed should members decide to proceed with our recommendations"

Isle of Wight Council Leader David Pugh said "Officers have prepared a detailed report with a number of recommendations for the way forward. I believe they show the council has continued to listen to the representations made during the consultation period. I want to take this opportunity to publicly thank everyone who sent in their views to the council during the formal consultation process, the scale of which has been amongst the biggest the Island has ever seen. It shows that, like us, people on the Island are passionate about education and offering the best opportunities for our young people".

Meanwhile, the government's Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) has confirmed it has approved Isle of Wight Council's submission for funding under the Primary Capital Programme (PCP).