Deadline looms to give views on school changes

Traditionally pupils would be at a middle school in Pershore until the age of 12

Views are being sought on changes to the school system in Pershore before consultation ends on Sunday.

Historically, the area had a three-tier school system where children attended first schools from age four to nine, middle school from age nine to 12 and high school from the age of 12.

But some schools changed to a two-tier system where pupils attended primary school until age 11 and then went on to secondary school.

Worcestershire County Council is consulting on proposals to convert to a single two-tier system.

The council said it started work on evaluating the issues following a direct approach from schools in the area in 2020.

Proposals include plans to change the age ranges, combine some schools and increase pupils numbers at schools in and around Pershore.

Schools that have already converted to two-tier will not make any further changes.

Councillor David Chambers, cabinet member for education, said: "We have been actively collaborating with Pershore schools and Academy Trusts to develop a unified and transparent approach to changing age ranges in the school system.

"Parents, carers, pupils, school staff, and residents are encouraged to have their say."

Final decisions are expected to be made in November.