Small schools, small class sizes

Primary school places in Kingston are in short supply.

Estimates suggest we need 25% more over the next 4 years to avoid years of temporary classrooms and a return to large class sizes.

This begs two questions. First, where’s the money coming from? Second, where are the places to go?

On cash, I’ve been lobbying Ministers, as Kingston Council can’t afford it alone. Do visit www.edwarddavey.co.uk for details of my work – and sign my petition for extra funding.

As we’ve shown Ministers, this isn’t confined to Kingston – over 20 other London Boroughs have similar difficulties. So Government knows it must do something.

The next few months will be critical for initial funding from central Government, to start the first stage of a schools building programme. However, I fear we won’t get decisions for investment needed in 3 or 4 years’ time till after the election.

On where extra classes go, the Council has just finished an “options” consultation. I’ve spoken to many parents for their reaction, and a clear message emerges.

Parents understandably value smaller primary schools. They want to avoid massive four form entry primaries. And they want to see planning for a new secondary school now.

I agree –so I’m launching a new campaign – “Small schools, small class sizes”.

There are three objectives: (1) to minimise the number of primaries that need to expand to three form entry – by arguing for at least three new schools in Kingston – as well as a new secondary school; (2) to oppose any proposal for a four form entry primary; (3) to champion smaller class sizes.

If you’d like to join this campaign, please contact me on 020 8288 0161 or daveye@parliament.uk