THE Diocese of Portsmouth has given its response to Isle of Wight Council proposals to close three C of E schools.

It has pledged to play a robust and constructive part in any consultation process to close Oakfield C of E Primary in Ryde, Brading C of E Primary, and Arreton St George’s C of E Primary. They are among six schools the Isle of Wight Council is proposing to close, to reduce the number of surplus places across the island.

The diocese’s view is that if the closure of any C of E school is proposed, pupils should be offered places at an alternative C of E school that is easily accessible to families. It will make this point during the consultation process that is expected to be approved by council leaders tomorrow. (Thurs 12 Sept)

Part of the rationale behind the council’s proposals is that funding for all schools across the island is affected if there are unfilled places in some schools. The suggested closures would remove 200 places a year from island primary schools from September 2025.

The Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev Jonathan Frost, who is the lead bishop for education in the Church of England, said: “I only heard about these proposals last week, so I am still working through the data presented by the Isle of Wight Council and many messages from parents and staff that have been sent to me since. I am also speaking to each of our headteachers.

“I can understand the rationale behind the proposals, but I believe Church of England schools offer something vital and distinctive that could easily be lost. Church schools aren’t there to fill our pews or force religion onto people. They are there to serve their local communities, welcoming those of all faiths and none who come through their doors.

“I am not surprised that many parents and staff have contacted me to say how much they value their local C of E school, as with their strong ethos, values and commitment to the wider community, they go the extra mile.

“Our position is clear: if a local authority proposes the closure of a C of E school, we will argue that parents should be offered an alternative C of E school that is easily accessible.

“In all six places where schools have been earmarked for closure, I would expect local church congregations to support their local school. I am asking clergy across the whole island to walk alongside and support those affected by this uncertainty and stress.”

The three C of E schools are run by the Isle of Wight Council as the local education authority, but the Anglican Diocese of Portsmouth advises on issues such as its ethos, collective worship and RE. Oakfield Primary and Arreton Primary are voluntary-aided, which means the Church of England contributes to building projects.

Jeff Williams, director of education for the Diocese of Portsmouth, said: “We will be engaging robustly with the Isle of Wight Council as they consult on these proposals, and would expect to be present at all of the public meetings called by the council to discuss them.

“We will listen to all of the arguments put forward by the council, and also listen to the concerns of our parents and staff. We will be as supportive as we can at this difficult time.”

He has urged those with concerns to contact the Isle of Wight’s education authority with their views while the consultation period remains open – from September 20 to November 1. Any changes agreed by the council wouldn’t take effect until September 2025.