LLYN parents, governors and teachers say children will not benefit from proposed changes to schools in the Pen Llyn area.

Some 230 people who attended a public meeting (17-1-07)  aired their concerns about the consulation process with feelings running high.

 

Cllr Liz Saville Roberts said: "These changes could have farreaching effects on the schools in this area. We had a discussion about what effect they could have, and it was a very positive meeting, with a number of good points being expressed." Cllr Roberts added: "At the moment we can't see what benefits the changes would bring to this area. We are concerned that any changes might be rushed through, without the proper consultation and discussion with parents, teachers and governors."

 

Bob Dorkins, headteacher at Ysgol Aberdaron, said after last Wednesday's meeting: "The meeting was very constructive, and one thing was clear, that everybody there was of the same opinion, that the changes would not benefit schools in Pen Llyn."

Mr Dorkins said that a vote was held at the end of the meeting, asking anybody who thought that the changes would be beneficial, to put their hand up. Nobody raised their hands, which shows the strong feelings in the area, according to Mr Dorkins. "The great thing that came out of the meeting is that there was a consensus between everybody," he said. Mr Dorkms also drew attention to how important the budget of the council is to what changes are going to take place.

"Schools need to see what kind of budget they get this year, and over the next three years," said Mr Dorkins. "We feel that this could be a way of closing smaller schools through the back door. Gwynedd have made it clear that they don't want to close schools, but if four schools come together in a federal school, the smaller of the four schools could close.

"The options available should not be compulsory, because they don't fit into the system we have in Pen Llyn. We hope that Gwynedd Council have heard our concerns." Mr Dorkins added: "Gwynedd Council will have to convince us beyond doubt, that the changes will be of huge benefit to the schools here."

 

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sources - cambrian news/bbc/llyn.net