SBC to consult on Small Schools Policy
Friday, July 7 2006
Scottish Borders Council has launched a 12-week consultation on the context and scope of its Small Schools Policy.
The policy, which was approved in May 2005, with a review scheduled for Autumn 2006, provides a consistent and fair framework to support small schools.
SBC's Department of Education and Lifelong Learning has identified 14 specific areas of the policy that it would like to change. The biggest proposed change is to move to a two-year review cycle. If approved by Council later this year, it would mean that the information for the next review will be collated in December 2007, and the review undertaken between January and April 2008. Subsequent reviews would be in 2010 and 2012.
The Department now wishes to invite the view of parents, community bodies, school boards and staff to contribute to this consultation.
Executive Spokesman for Education, Councillor Andrew Farquhar, explained, "The first review process was very successful and I know from talking to parents and staff that schools thought the process was supportive. While we are happy with the overall contents, there are a number of points in the policy that we want to clarify. I am also very clear that moving to a two-year cycle of review will strengthen the process by minimising any additional work for headteachers."
Copies of the consultation document can be downloaded from the Council website.
They are also available online or by telephone from Tracey Graham on 01835 826592.
Responses should be sent to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning at Scottish Borders Council, Council HQ, Newtown St Boswells, Melrose TD6 0SA
The closing date for responses is Monday 9 October 2006.
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