School closure decision imminent

AFTER more than a decade of uncertainty, a final decision about the future of Abbeydale Grange school in Sheffield is set to be made next week.

Last December, Sheffield Council’s cabinet committee formally proposed that the school – which has been dubbed “unpopular” and “failing” – should close.

Councillors will listen to any final arguments against the closure of Abbeydale Grange at the meeting next Wednesday, February 24.

Councillor Andrew Sangar, schools spokesman for Sheffield Council, said the council had been “working hard to make sure that the alternative arrangements for students are sound.”

He added: “This has meant a period of uncertainty for students and staff at the school. However I’m pleased that students have now been offered a place in a local school, in line with their preferences.

“I hope that next week’s decision will put an end to the years of uncertainty that Abbeydale Grange students have faced.”

The school has 549 pupils, who will be transferred to High Storrs, King Ecgbert, King Edward VII, Silverdale and Tapton schools after this summer’s holidays if the closure goes ahead,

Fewer than one in five pupils at Abbeydale Grange achieves five GCSE passes at A* to C, including English and maths.

Many do not speak English as their first language.

Last year, Ofsted inspectors placed the school in “special measures”, but were more positive in a follow-up visit several weeks later.