Three Dunstable schools given permission to increase the age range of their student intake have told of their “excitement” about becoming primary schools.
St Christopher’s, Hadrian and Barnfield Vale (formerly Mill Vale) will accommodate four- to 11-year-olds – Key Stage 1 up to age seven, and Key Stage 2 up to age 11. Eaton Bray Academy was also granted permission to make these changes.
The changes come as an anticipated shift to a two-tier educational system begins to take shape across Central Beds.
South West Beds MP Andrew Selous said the news “removes uncertainty”. He is working with other schools ahead of Queensbury Academy’s expected consultation on possibly becoming a secondary school, for pupils aged 11 to 18.
St Christopher’s acting principal Helen Smith said: “We’re all very excited about the news, and are looking forward to the future and keeping our children for longer.”
Hadrian’s chair of governors Angela Roberts said: “It was wonderful to be in school and experience the sheer joy and excitement from both the staff and children this morning about us now being a Primary Academy.”
A spokesman for Eaton Bray Academy said: “We were delighted to be informed that our application to become a primary school has been successful.”
They added the move will help them to “avoid being left behind” as inevitable changes take place within the educational system in central Bedfordshire”.
Councillor Mark Versallion said: “Any school which wants to change its age range must show that there is local parental demand and that they will continue to be able to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with special educational needs.
“No one at the council underestimates the impact of these changes for both families and the schools involved, but I know that everyone involved is committed to making the transition as smooth as possible.”
Central Beds Council has also set up an information service at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/admissions.
Visit Hadrian Academy – www.hadrianacademy.co.uk; Barnfield Vale Academy – www.millvaleschool.com; St Christopher’s Academy – www.stchristophersacademy.org, and Eaton Bray Academy – www.eatonbray.ik.org.