A VALE middle school has moved to quash ‘damaging’ rumours about its future with its headteacher defiantly insisting it will not close ‘now or in the future.’
Blackminster Middle School headteacher Lorna Button sent out a letter to concerned parents last week in response to rumours questioning the ‘viability’ of the school.
The school has been the centre of speculation since major changes to Evesham’s first schools which saw Honeybourne Primary Academy welcome year six pupils for the first time.
A number of other first schools in the town are pursuing Academy status which could see them broadening their pupil intake, potentially bypassing the need for middle schools such as Blackminster.
But in her letter, Mrs Button tackled rumours of the school closing and said they were ‘not based on evidence.’
“Blackminster Middle School will not be closing now or in the future,” she said.
“I would also like to state that I plan to stay here as headteacher for the foreseeable future.
“I am aware that the community has had some concerns about the future of the pyramid; and the viability of Blackminster Middle School in particular.
“There have been some organisation changes in some schools in the pyramid and, unfortunately this had led to some people drawing conclusions which are not based on evidence.
“The rumours are very damaging and have affected the confidence of parents and carers in the community in our school and this is why I asked the local authority to make it clear Blackminster will continue to educate children as a middle school.
“I am very proud of our school which has served the community successfully for the past 78 years. “We are a good school, offering a rich and vibrant curriculum taught by specialist teachers in a beautiful rural setting. I hope this letter will put minds at rest and we can get on with the business of educating your young people.”
The school has also been supported by John Edwards, Strategic Commissioner for Education and Skills at Worcestershire County Council.
“The local authority is committed to Blackminster Middle School staying open and maintaining the school as a good school that parents wish to send their children to,” Mr Edwards said.
“We will be working closely with the headteacher and the chair of Governors to ensure Blackminster is a sustainable and successful school.”
