FOLLOWING the news that Whitbourne CE Primary School could close at the end of March, a group of concerned parents has vowed to fight to keep it open.

Deb Walker, whose daughter is one of 25 children who attend the school, said the importance of the school to the village should not be overlooked.

She said: “The council is just looking at the financial side of things when deciding whether or not to close the school, which I know is important, but there is more to it than that.

“The school is more than 150 years old, has seen countless students pass
through it with great results and having to move to a bigger school is a big deal for children from a small village.

“Applying for academy status seems to be the best option but we are still considering all options.

“We would also look to make the school different to any other, making it more of an outdoor based school.”

Anna Marshall, another parent with two children at the school, said it will ‘really be a shame’ to see the school go.

“The school is a huge part of our community and it would be a very sad loss,” she said.

“I agree that applying for academy status is the most viable option although to make it a free school would also be lovely.”

In a statement issued on February 12, Herefordshire Council said: “Schools with small rolls face considerable challenges not least budgetary ones.

“Collectively, the council, school and diocese are talking to parents, staff and members of the local community to explore every possible avenue for the future.

“Possibilities include working in collaboration with another or other schools.

“Alternatively there may be a community group that wishes to pursue a free school option.

“Discussions will continue over the next few weeks before a decision is made about the school’s future in March 2013.”

Another meeting was being held last night (Wednesday) to further discuss the school’s future.