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28
Apr 2022
Parents set for agonising wait over future of Harrogate school
An education leader has indicated there is unlikely to be a quick decision on the fate of Woodfield Community Primary School amid growing frustration amongst parents and children.
The school has offered new admissions in September. But with a huge question mark over its future, and the total number of pupils falling to 37 amid the uncertainty, parents want a quick decision so they can make definite plans.
However, Amanda Newbold, assistant director for education and skills at North Yorkshire County Council, indicated it could be some time before a decision is made.
She said:
The Bilton school faces the possibility of closure after nearby Grove Road Community Primary School withdrew from a planned merger three weeks ago. The merger was proposed after Woodfield school was rated 'inadequate' by government inspectors from Ofsted in 2020 and no academy would take it on.
Read more:
- Future of Woodfield school uncertain as Grove Road merger dropped
- Harrogate Grammar School rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted
- Parents describe 'chaotic' morning after Boroughbridge school bus cut
Sarah Preston, who has been a parent to children at the school for 12 years, said clarity was needed rather than the current "mixed messages". She added:
Ms Preston said merger appeared to be a "done deal" until recently and she was now left "praying for a miracle" that Woodfield survives — but if it doesn't she would rather know soon so she could make alternative plans for September. She said:
Asked what parents should do amid the uncertainty, Ms Newbold said:
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