Look into the history of Burwell schools before making more closures
I HAVE never written to a newspaper before but I feel it is time for common sense and care of families to prevail over financial savings.
With regard to the planned changes to the education system from three tiers to two in Suffolk, the people responsible for these actions should look back at the history of the Burwell schools to realise what a big mistake they are contemplating.
In the 1970s, two of the three Burwell schools were closed. Then, as now, there was much anxiety and discontent among us parents.
We had public meetings, petitions etc where we all aired our fears and views. But, as usual, nothing us ordinary folks who were affected by their actions did could make these bureaucrats change their minds. Now Burwell has a problem that the parents of the 1970s could foresee.
There are so many youngsters due to start school shortly that some are not going to be able to be schooled in their own village as there are not enough places in the village school.
Even more serious, many parents are threatened with the fact that siblings will not necessarily be able to attend the same school. This is totally unacceptable.
In this uncertain day and age, where children’s safety is a major issue, how can these people expect the parents to be able to meet their children from two different schools?
Regarding the proposed closure of St Felix Middle School in Newmarket, I was extremely lucky to attend the St Felix concert the other evening as I have a step-granddaughter aged 11 who, since she started attending the school, has come on in leaps and bounds.
I was thrilled when my son-in-law invited me to attend and it was a wonderful success.
Mr Bavington and his staff have done a superb job under very difficult circumstances and everyone enjoyed the whole evening. The happy atmosphere was amazing and such a credit to all concerned.
I would challenge this committee proposing the closure to go and visit this very happy and professional school before doing anything hasty, that they will live to regret.
I would hate to see history repeating itself.
Ann Simpson
Burwell
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Friday 25 May 2012
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