School with no pupils stays open
- Aug. 15, 2010
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A primary school in Carmarthenshire has been told it must stay open despite having no pupils, which is costing up to £110,000
The school, based near Newcastle Emlyn, lost its last twelve children in July as they moved on to secondary school.
The school remains open as the local authority would have to go through lengthy procedures, including a statutory consultation with the people in the area, before the issue can be discussed by the Carmarthenshire council.
In the case of objection, the matter would be passed to the Assembly Government’s Education Minister, which could result in the process taking over a year to complete.
Councillor Gwynne Woolridge, Education Executive of Carmarthenshire Council, said: that when situations like this arise, it is very difficult.
“It does cost us money and you have just got to carry on with the consultation process and keep the school open until that process is finished.”
A spokesperson for the assembly government has said that it would be “unlawful” to close the school without having followed the procedures.
The school will remain open at least until March 2011, retaining a head teacher, school caretaker and full government body.
