Declares that the proposed expansion of St Peter’s Primary School, South Croydon for a “bulge class” in September 2010 and future expansion to 2FE (2 Form Entry) from 1FE will damage the ethos of the school when other suitable schools are currently undersubscribed and notes the massive disruption that will be caused to children at the school.
The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges the Government to ask Croydon Council to look at alternative arrangements for accommodating increased demand for school places.
And the Petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Mr Andrew Pelling, Official Report, 7 April 2010; Vol. 508, c. 42P.]
[P000825]
Observations from the Secretary of State for Education:
Under current legislation, proposed changes to local school provision, including expansions, are matters for local determination. Where changes are proposed a statutory process must be followed which includes consultation with those likely to be affected by the proposals. Proposals are determined, taking account of any comments or objections received, under established local decision-making arrangements. The Government have no direct role in the process.
We understand that Croydon local authority has recently consulted on proposed changes to primary schools in its area, including the expansion of a number of schools to help accommodate an increase in demand.