Any proposal to close the school is clearly significant and will have an impact on pupils, families, staff and the wider community. However, having undertaken a comprehensive review of the school's educational, financial and organisational position, and having carefully considered all realistic alternatives, it is considered that consultation on closure represents the most responsible, sustainable and deliverable course of action.
Having considered all potential alternatives, consultation on closure has been identified as the most likely viable option that is educationally sound, financially responsible and capable of being implemented within a realistic timeframe, particularly given the availability of alternative school places within the local area.
The process to consult and consider the future of the school requires adherence to statutory guidance (Closing maintained schools May 2026) and the School Organisation (Establishment and Discontinuance of Schools) Regulations 2013 along with the relevant sections of Part 2 and Schedule 2 to the Education and Inspections Act 2006.
The Five-Stage Statutory Process is as follows:
Stage 1 - Consultation
The council undertakes a public consultation with parents, staff, governors, the Diocese, local stakeholders and the wider community. During this period, the views of all interested parties will be sought and carefully considered before any further decisions are made. This is then considered by the council, and it decides on whether to proceed with a formal statutory proposal as per Stage 2 below.
Stage 2 - Publication
A formal statutory proposal is published, triggering a four-week representation period during which objections and comments may be submitted.
Stage 3 - Decision-Making
The council determines whether to proceed with closure of the school within two months of the close of the representation period.
Stage 4 - Referral (where applicable)
In certain circumstances, matters may be referred to the Schools Adjudicator.
Stage 5 - Implementation
In the event that the council decides to close the school closure will be implemented which includes pupil transfers, staffing arrangements, disposal of assets and closure arrangements.
During the consultation process the IEB will remain in place and work alongside the council and Diocese of Chester to manage the process sensitively and responsibly. This will include:
- supporting staff through appropriate HR processes and engagement with relevant professional associations and trade unions
- supporting the council and Diocese in engagement with parents, carers and the wider community
- supporting the council and Diocese throughout the consultation process