Save Our Schools

Primary Listing Objective

Community Ambitions,Economic Ambitions,Political Ambitions

What's The Ask?

Let’s join forces to save six primary schools and preserve the heart of Isle of Wight communities. Together, we can create a sustainable plan for funding and advocate for the importance of these schools in supporting families, education, and local infrastructure.

Activity Info

The proposed closures of six primary schools on the Isle of Wight highlight a pressing issue for local communities. The goal is to develop a long-term solution that keeps these schools open while addressing the financial challenges they face. This problem threatens the educational opportunities of children, the cohesion of local communities, and the accessibility of vital public services. By uniting parents, educators, and community leaders, this activity aims to identify practical funding solutions and ensure these schools remain essential hubs for learning and social engagement.

The Story So Far:
The Isle of Wight faces the proposed closure of six primary schools—Oakfield, Brading, Cowes, Godshill, Wroxhall, and Arreton—as part of a council plan to improve educational standards and address financial constraints. Parents, however, are pushing back, citing the far-reaching social, educational, and emotional consequences these closures would have on their communities.

Why This Matters:

Community Impact:
School closures threaten to dismantle the social fabric of local villages, making them less appealing to young families and jeopardising local infrastructure like shops and social venues.
Educational Disruption:
The closures disproportionately affect schools like Cowes Primary, rated "Good" by Ofsted, while poorer-performing academies remain exempt. Students with SEND and those benefiting from pupil premium grants face heightened challenges if relocated.
Transportation Burdens:
Parents voice concerns about long commutes to distant schools, increased financial strain from transportation costs, and the environmental toll of additional traffic.
Emotional Strain:
Families, especially those who experienced prior closures, fear the psychological toll on children who thrive in their current schools. Schools like Oakfield, known for prioritizing mental health, play a critical role in students' well-being.
Environmental Impact:
Increased road traffic in tourist-heavy villages like Godshill will exacerbate congestion and pollution, disrupting daily life and harming the environment.

By addressing these issues, we can protect the future of education and community cohesion on the Isle of Wight.

Future State

A future where all six schools remain open, supported by a sustainable funding model that preserves these essential community institutions. Education thrives as schools continue to serve as vital hubs for learning, mental health, and community engagement. Families benefit from stability, reduced environmental impact, and preserved local infrastructure, creating a stronger, more resilient Isle of Wight.

Benefits Realisation

Save Time,Save Money,Increase Efficiency,Enhance Life,Be Happier

Address

Isle of Wight, England, United Kingdom

Help Needed

Collaboration, Political Will, Publicity, Public Support

Other Help Options

Like or Dislike Listing, Review Listing, Share Listing, Offer Help & Support, Invite Others

Call To Action

Join the fight to save Isle of Wight schools. Connect with local parents, educators, and community leaders to organise protests, raise awareness, and engage with local government. Attend informal gatherings to brainstorm strategies, create placards, and amplify the message. Together, we can protect our schools, preserve community values, and ensure a brighter future for our children.