THURROCK COUNCIL’S ruling Labour cabinet made the controversial decision last night (Wednesday) to recommend the closure of Stifford Clays Infant school in August and expand the Junior School.
Council leader, John Kent set out his stall when he told the assembled members of staff: “The two schools are not performing well enough.”
Portfolio holder, cllr Oliver Gerrish backed his leader. He said: “The infant school has gradually declined. We want to do what is best for the children.”
Speaking for the junior school, chair of governors, former council officer and director of effective education solutions, Corin Whymark told the cabinet that” Research shows that primary schools outstrip junior and infant schools when it comes to performance.
“What is vital here is the best decision for the children and with that in mind we must select an outstanding head.”
Chair of governors for the infants, Jane Crawford made an impassioned plea for the infants. She said: “Figures show that the infant school has improved where as the junior school with a large number of heads has declined.
Stifford Infants head, Linda Catton has eighteen years of experience, working in the school and in the community. Close the infants and it will all count for nothing.”
The final decision rests with the full council next week.
