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Ref: 444/07 23 November 2007
Launch Of Alsager, Congleton, Sandbach & Holmes Chapel Transforming Learning Communities Review
Community leaders have taken part in a conference to consider reshaping children’s services to meet the changing needs of residents in Alsager, Congleton, Sandbach and Holmes Chapel.
Headteachers, governors and local councillors were among the delegates invited to Crewe Hall last Wednesday (November 21) to learn more about Cheshire County Council’s Transforming Learning Communities initiative.
The initiative follows the need for changes highlighted by the latest Children Act with its focus on integrated and efficient services for families and children.
The opportunity for a more wide-ranging review has been created by falling birth rates which mean an increasing number of empty seats.
There are 36 primary schools and six secondary schools in the area covered in the review.
Current data shows there are 1,024 surplus primary school places and 139 surplus secondary places in the locality.
Projections for 2012 show the problem escalating – with surplus places estimated to rise to 1,441 primary and 500 secondary.
Guests at the stakeholder conference heard the case for change and details of the timeline for consultation and debate.
Children’s Services Executive Member David Rowlands said: “I would emphasise that we are not starting with a blueprint for this review.
“This is why it is important to begin by presenting to key stakeholders the case for change and the mechanisms by which individuals and interest groups can become involved.”
The initial options for consultation are likely to be announced in April 2008.
The conference was hosted by the Lead Officer for the locality review, Bryan Slater, previously a senior officer within a number of county councils including Cornwall, Dorset, Devon, and most recently Norfolk, where for eight years until 2005 he held the post of Director of Education.
He said: “This review is needed to ensure we offer the best opportunities for the future needs of children within the area.
“I plan to talk to as many people as possible so we have a full understanding of the complex issues in the more rural parts of the county. This is a process of partnership where everyone can contribute.”
For latest updates of Cheshire’s Transforming Learning Communities initiative visit www.cheshire.gov.uk/tlc
Photo Caption: Bryan Slater, Lead Officer for the Transforming Learning Communities Review in Alsager, Congleton, Sandbach & Holmes Chapel.
Ends
Notes To Editors: For further information please contact County Councillor Rowlands on 01244 300655.
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