Liberal Democrat cabinet to consider proposals to expand six primary schools in Keynsham, Bath, Peasedown St. John and Paulton

With the population of young children growing in Bath and NE Somerset there is a need for additional places at several primary schools. Councils have a legal duty to provide sufficient numbers of school places for the children in its area. The Liberal Democrat Cabinet of the Council will consider the needs and consultation at its meeting on 13 February concerning proposals to create additional pupil places at Bathampton Primary, Castle Primary, Paulton Infant, Paulton Junior, Peasedown St. John Primary and Weston All Saints C of E Primary schools.  These extra places will ensure that local families can send their children to local schools.

As the Liberal Democrat Leader of the Council it is important to me that young children can attend primary schools in their own communities wherever and whenever possible.  We are fortunate in B&NES that all our schools are good and it is important that we continue our excellent record in education whilst meeting the growing demand for places at our schools. In looking at schools to expand we have consulted widely with parents, teacher, governors and residents. We are providing the capital to expand 6 schools subject to further consultation and revenue funding will be provided by the Government through the Dedicated Schools Grant on a per pupil basis. My administration is investing in the future of our young people across the district and all this whilst at the same time proposing for the second year a 0% Council Tax increase.