PARENTS of pupils at St Mary’s Primary School in Broughton Gifford are celebrating after news that a decision to reduce the number of classes at the school has been reversed.
Funding obtained by St Mary’s and the White Horse Federation – the multi-academy trust that manages eight of Melksham’s schools – has meant that the school can return to a four- class structure, after dropping to three classes last year.
“The Friends of St Mary’s School PTA are delighted that the school and parent community have worked so hard together for this positive outcome,” said Charlotte Godsiffe on behalf of the PTA. “The return to a four-class structure will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the learning experience for our children and it really is wonderful to see the school thriving.”
At the time, the White Horse Federation explained that the decision to drop to three classes was made because of a ‘steady decline’ in pupil numbers.
The federation also made changes to the leadership model at the school, making the role of headteacher at the school redundant and placing the school under the leadership of the principal, Candida Hutchinson, who also oversees St George’s Primary School in Semington and Seend Primary School.
The changes at the school caused parents to launch a campaign against the changes, demanding dedicated management for the school and voicing their concerns that teachers would be overstretched, having to teach pupils from multiple year groups in one class. The parents’ campaign also received backing from school governors and St Mary’s Church.
However, nearly a year later, parents have praised the new leadership model.
“We have been impressed by the dedication shown by [principal] Candida Hutchinson to St Mary’s since she took leadership of our school,” said Charlotte Godsiffe on behalf of the PTA.
Principal Candida Hutchinson, told Melksham News, “St Mary’s CE Primary School, assisted by the White Horse Federation, has managed to secure additional funding that will provide existing teaching staff with additional hours.
“As a result of this, we’re able to adjust the pupil/teacher ratios and return to a four-class structure.
“Education funding is still a challenge for all schools and we’re doing our very best to deliver an outstanding education provision with what’s available. We know that staff, parents and children will welcome this news and thank everyone for their continued support.”