Opposition to reducing school's classes

Northumberland County Council wants to reduce the numbers going to Sele First School in Hexham

Parents and teachers are opposing plans to reduce a school's pupil numbers saying they are not in the best interests of the community.

Northumberland County Council wants to reduce the number of classes at Sele First School in Hexham from three to two, with the number of children decreasing from 84 to 60.

The authority said the plans were in response to falling birth rates and trying to ensure schools are "financially and educationally viable".

However, headteacher Rebecca McVittie said: "Balancing the school budget would be really challenging with fewer children."

Parent Charlotte Hornsby is concerned larger classes would affect children with additional needs

Ms McVittie said "conversations have to be had" about falling birth rates, but is calling for more coordination between schools within the Hexham area.

"We're in a listed building and the costs of our premises would remain exactly the same even if pupil numbers are reduced," she said.

Parent Charlotte Hornby is concerned larger class sizes would have a negative impact on children with additional needs.

"My eldest was in a class of 20 last year, he's autistic and in a class nearer 30 he would have really struggled," she said.

Kathryn Davidson moved to Hexham from Wark so her son Rory could attend the school in 2026.

"We moved because of the school's reputation, but if this goes ahead I'm worried he won't get a place," she added.

Kathryn Davidson is concerned her son will not get a place at the school

Research by the Education Policy Institute suggests the North East is among the areas most affected by projected falling pupil numbers.

John Hall, of the teachers' union NASUWT, said: "My concern is that there isn't a coordinated response about what is about to happen as schools adapt, my worry is there will be massive turbulence."

In a statement the county council said the plans were part of a "wider strategy implemented over the last three years".

"Whilst we appreciate that Sele is a popular school, the local authority has a duty to ensure a viable system for all Northumberland schools."