I am a concerned parent from Prudhoe and like many of you, I am deeply troubled by the proposed closure of two cherished first schools in our local community; Mickley First School and Prudhoe Castle First School. 

These institutions have been integral parts of our community for generations, nurturing our children's growth, fostering relationships and cultivating a love for learning. This issue is personal to me because my son and daughter both attend one of these schools and I have seen first hand the positive impact it has had on their education and personal development. 

The closure of these schools would force many young children to travel further afield, disrupting their daily routines and exposing them to longer and more arduous journeys. Moreover, the closure threatens to dissolve the tight knit community spirit that has been fostered in Prudhoe and Mickley over the years. When we take away local schools, we not only strip our children of convenient access to education but also the sense of security and community that comes with it.

It's crucial to consider other alternatives to the school closures, such as reallocating local resources more efficiently or seeking additional funding. We should evaluate underutilised spaces within the existing schools in Prudhoe and Mickley and optimise them to better serve our current and future students.

There are significant concerns within our local community that the closure of the two schools will put too much strain on Broomley First School and Ovingham  First School, the sizes of these schools are not suited to an influx of students to the level proposed.

Statistics from the Department for Education show that smaller class sizes, like those in our first schools, contribute to better student performance and individual attention. Mickley First School and Prudhoe Castle First School provide not only quality education but also an inclusive environment that caters to the unique needs of every child. 

Let's come together as a community to voice our concerns to the Cheviot Learning Trust. Our children's education and wellbeing should be a top priority and keeping these schools open is a vital step in ensuring a bright future for all children in Prudhoe and Mickley. 

Please sign this petition to urge the Cheviot Learning Trust  to reconsider the closures and explore viable alternative solutions. Together, we can make a difference for our children and our community's future.

Please allow your voice to be heard and respond to the consultation too.

Link to consultation response form:

https://tinyurl.com/2pxcnbka