Parents asked for views on plans to expand primary school

Views are being sought on plans to expand a primary school to meet the growing demand for school places.

East Sussex County Council has launched a consultation on proposals to expand Polegate School and create an additional 210 places.

The school in Oakleaf Drive currently has capacity for 420 children aged between four and 11 – 60 in each year group. The proposals would increase this to 630 places - 90 in each year group from Reception to Year 6 - from September 2019.

Fiona Wright, the county council’s assistant director for education and ISEND, said, “Polegate School has become increasingly popular with parents - 96 chose it as their first preference for the September 2017 intake.

“Demand has also been affected by the town’s population growth in recent years as a result of housing development.

“The proposals are a result of the county council’s detailed planning. We keep track of birth rates, housing developments and other data to ensure that we are able to offer every child a suitable place at a good primary school.”

Members of the public have until Friday, July 21, to give their views, which will be considered before a decision is taken by the lead member for Education and Inclusion, Special Educational Needs and Disability on whether to continue with the proposal to expand.