Review of Secondary Education Provision in Haverfordwest

REVIEW OF SECONDARY EDUCATION PROVISION IN HAVERFORDWEST

CONSULTATION REPORT

MARCH 2017

Published by:

Pembrokeshire County Council Children & Schools Directorate County Hall Haverfordwest SA61 1TP

March 2017

For a copy of this publication in Braille, in larger print or audio tape, or an alternative language, please contact Pembrokeshire County Council on 01437 776613

Foreword

Pembrokeshire County Council is responsible for promoting high educational standards and for delivering efficient primary and secondary education. Having the right schools in the right places and ensuring that they are fit for the 21st century learner is considered central to this and is a challenge facing councils across Wales.

Meeting this challenge involves reviewing the number and type of school the Council has in its area and assessing whether or not best use is being made of these schools to deliver effective education to meet the needs and aspirations of learners in Pembrokeshire.

The Council reviews its education provision on the basis of:  Quality and future sustainability of education delivery  Sufficiency and accessibility of school places  The condition, suitability and standard of school buildings  Value for money

This Consultation Report sets out the statutory consultation undertaken regarding the case for change to secondary education provision in Haverfordwest. All comments and responses received during the consultation period have been recorded, and have been collated and summarised in this document. Acknowledgement or rebuttal of comments and responses has been included (as appropriate).

Pembrokeshire County Council will consider this Consultation Report in its meeting on 6 April 2017.

Katharine Evan-Hughes Director for Children and Schools

Contents

1. Executive Summary 4

2. Introduction 5

3. Distribution of Consultation Report 5

4. Consultation Arrangements 6 4.1 Consultation with the Tasker Milward & Picton Charity 4.2 Consultation Document 4.3 Consultation Meetings 4.4 Consultation with Children & Young People

5. Consultation Correspondence 9 5.1 Volume & Profile of responses received 5.2 Response from Estyn 5.3 Response from Pembrokeshire College

6. Consultation Responses 11 6.1 General consensus 6.2 Issues raised by Estyn 6.3 Issues raised by Pembrokeshire College

Appendix A 31 Consultation with Children & Young People

Appendix B 37 Correspondence received as part of statutory consultation

Appendix C 157 Response from Estyn

1. Executive Summary

1.1 Key Outcomes The findings arising from the statutory consultation provide compelling evidence that there is a strong level of support for the establishment of a new 11-19 secondary school in Haverfordwest. It should be noted, however, that much of this support is conditional upon the need to minimise disruption to both pupils and staff in order to raise standards. This appears to have an evidential basis, being founded on personal experience and/or an understanding of the gravity of not having any schools classified as Good or Outstanding and recent Estyn judgements.

The conditional support is based upon the following:  The need to ensure that pupils and staff are not unduly inconvenienced or are subject to disruption more than is absolutely necessary;  That the new school should not operate over two sites more than is absolutely necessary;  That the Council should continue to maintain the two current schools until such time as: o Band B capital funding is assured; o A new school has been built and is ready for occupation.

1.2 Conclusion School improvement is at the very heart of this proposal and it is clear that change must occur sooner rather than later in order to improve outcomes for learners attending secondary education provision in Haverfordwest. It is considered that an early amalgamation of Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools is essential in order to bring about a change for the better. Parental concerns in relation to the disruption to pupils is acknowledged, and assurances must be given that such disruption would be kept to a minimum.

There is little doubt that the consultation has resulted in a strong level of support for the proposal and that this is in stark contrast to previous proposals which were in relation to 11-16 provision. The agreement to the Council’s current proposal, albeit conditional, and the strength of feeling displayed previously for a need for 11-19 provision in Haverfordwest, suggests that a recommendation should be made to proceed to Statutory Notice.

2. Introduction

Pembrokeshire County Council has a statutory duty to secure sufficient and suitable school places in its area and to determine whether it is making the best use of resources and facilities to deliver the opportunities that children deserve.

At its meeting on 20 October 2016, Council resolved to authorise the Director for Children and Schools to undertake consultation with the Trustees of the Tasker Milward and Picton Charity on the following proposal:

i. Discontinue Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward VC schools on 31 August 2018; ii. Establish a new 11-19 English medium secondary school in Haverfordwest with effect from 1 September 2018, utilising the sites of the current schools.

Statutory consultation with the Trustees of the Tasker Milward and Picton Charity was undertaken during October and November 2016, the findings of which were reported to Council on 8 December 2016. The resolution arising from this meeting noted the Trustees’ response and authorised the Director for Children and Schools to undertake general (statutory) consultation.

This document represents the County Council’s responsibility as part of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act 2013 to publish a Consultation Document, and:  Summarises each of the issues and concerns raised by consultees;  Responds to these issues by means of clarification or rejection of the concerns with supporting reasons, and  Sets out Estyn’s view of the overall merits of the proposal.

3. Distribution of Consultation Report

. The Governing Bodies, parents, guardians and staff of all schools in the Sir Thomas Picton, Tasker Milward VC, Milford Haven and St David’s clusters of schools, Portfield School and Ysgol Gymraeg Glan Cleddau; . The pupils / school councils of all the above schools; . Pembrokeshire College; . The Trustees of the Tasker Milward and Picton Charity; . The Directors of Education for the Diocese of St David’s and the Diocese of Menevia; . Assembly Members: Paul Davies (constituency), Rebecca Evans (regional), William Powell (regional), Simon Thomas (regional), Joyce Watson (regional); . Member of Parliament: Stephen Crabb; . Teaching and support staff trade unions: NUT, NASUWT, UCAC, ATL, NAHT, ASCLE, UNISON, GMB; . Welsh Minister for Education and Skills; . Estyn; . Carmarthenshire County Council and Ceredigion County Council; . ERW – Regional Education Consortium; . Council Transport Manager; . Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Commissioner; . Pembrokeshire Communities First; . Pembrokeshire Local Service Board; . Hywel Dda Health Board;

. SNAP Cymru; . The Charities Commission; . The following Community, Town and City Councils: Ambleston, Burton, Camrose, Freystrop, Haverfordwest, Hayscastle, Hook, Johnston, Llangwm, Llanstadwell, Llawhaden, Merlin’s Bridge, Neyland, Nolton & Roch, Rosemarket, Rudbaxton, Spittal, The Havens, Tiers Cross, Uzmaston Boulston & Slebech, Walwyn’s Castle, Wiston, Wolfscastle; . Childcare & Young People’s Partnership – Early Years, Childcare and Learning Group.

In addition, this report will be distributed to all consultees who have specifically requested to be advised of its availability.

4. Consultation Arrangements

4.1 Consultation with the Trustees of the Tasker Milward and Picton Charity

(a) Prior to the commencement of general statutory consultation, and in accordance with the School Organisation Statutory Code (The Code), consultation on the Council’s proposal was undertaken with the Trustees of the Tasker Milward and Picton Charity. In view of the fact that various parcels of land on the Tasker Milward school site are in the ownership of the above Charity, it is a requirement to conduct consultation with the trustees before the consultation document is published, to allow 28 days for the receipt of comments and to have due regard to those comments before any decision is made to proceed to general consultation.

(b) All issues raised by the Trustees were included in a report considered by Council on 8 December 2016, and are replicated below. In accordance with statutory requirements, Council paid due regard to the issues raised prior to approving to continue with general statutory consultation.

Matters Raised by the Trust Response 1 The Trustees are pleased to note The Director is continuing to facilitate that the proposal is for an 11-19 discussions with all post 16 providers to school retaining a sixth form with a establish a sustainable model for the wide range of courses, whilst future. accepting that not all courses will be viable and that some will have to be provided in co-operation with other schools and Pembrokeshire College. 2 One of the purposes of the Trust is to The Council gives due regard to the provide a site for Tasker Milward Trust looking favourably on a proposal School. That purpose cannot be to use the site. The property identified fulfilled if Tasker Milward is in the schedule of the Tasker Milward discontinued, but the Trustees will and Picton Charity Trust Scheme look favourably on a proposal to use (1983) is to be appropriated and used the site for an alternative 11-19 for the purposes of the school i.e. held secondary school, if it is determined on trust for the purposes of Tasker that the site can accommodate the Milward School. new school. In order to minimise any potential public objections, the Not all the land is held under the Trust Trustees consider that an alternative Scheme. Those parts that are not scheme should make specific remain vested in the Council. reference to the age range 11-19. 6

Matters Raised by the Trust Response 3 The Trustees would also consider The Council welcomes the opportunity favourably an arrangement for an provided, and gives due regard to the exchange of land, should the Council suggestion. It should be noted that consider that new provision should there are specific statutory provisions be made on the site of Sir Thomas that must be abided by in relation to the Picton School. This would enable the transfer of land. Trust to effectively continue its primary purpose, whilst at the same time releasing the Tasker Milward site to the Council in its entirety. On that basis, the new school would become a voluntary controlled school. There would need to be suitable safeguards in relation to the governing body and the constitution of the new school.

4 Any new arrangement which involves If the proposal to discontinue the the use of Trust property is subject to existing school is approved, this is an alternative scheme being inconsistent with the literal terms of the approved by the Charity 1983 scheme, and the scheme would Commission. The Trustees have to need amending. consult on any proposal for An Order further to s.82(1) School amendment of the existing scheme Standards and Framework Act 1998 and cannot do so meaningfully until, from Welsh Ministers could modify the at least, the site of the new school is 1983 scheme by substituting a determined. Once that is known it reference to the proposed new school may be possible for the consultations for the reference to Tasker Milward of the Trustees and the Council to school (& any other modification run in tandem. required as a result of the proposal) This power is subject to Welsh Ministers consulting with the Governing Body of Tasker Milward school, the Trustees, and any other persons they consider appropriate.

Subsequent discussions with representatives of the Trust have confirmed that the Trust will consider consultation on the basis of the use of either the Tasker Milward site or the Sir Thomas Picton site.

5 The initial problem is that the If Welsh Ministers were to decline to proposal under consideration make an Order, the theoretical involves the discontinuance of possibility remains of seeking an Tasker Milward and the new school amending scheme from the Charity being operated on both sites, Commission. However this application pending allocation of new funding for must be made by the Trustees a new-build. That, in itself, is outside the remit of the existing scheme and will involve an application for a new 7

Matters Raised by the Trust Response scheme. Clearly it would be more sensible if we were able to approach the Charity Commission for one new scheme, rather than a temporary one now and another when a decision is made on the new location for the school, not least because of the attendant requirements for consultation. The Trustees hope that engagement between the professional representatives of the council and the Trust can mitigate any difficulties in this respect. 6 The Trustees look forward to moving This will be subject to the decision of these proposals forward in a co- Council. operative and timely manner in the best interests of the children of Haverfordwest and area.

4.2 Consultation Document

The Consultation Document for the Council’s proposal was published on 9 January 2017 and in accordance with the Code, was distributed to all statutory consultees (shown on Page 3 of the Consultation Document) and published on the County Council website at www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/haveyoursay.

4.3 Consultation Meetings

(a) A consultation meeting was held as follows:

Date Venue 1st February 2017 Committee Rooms, County Hall, Haverfordwest

(b) Various press releases and a promotional flyer were circulated prior to, and during the consultation period in order to raise awareness and to highlight how local people could take part in the process.

4.4 Consultation with Children and Young People

In accordance with the Code, suitable arrangements were made to consult with pupils of all schools affected by the proposal. A “pupil-friendly” version of the Consultation Document was prepared and distributed to all School Councils. All responses received from School Councils and from any individual pupils are included in the data and information that follow. Furthermore, School Council conferences were held at the Pembrokeshire Archive on 30th January 2017 – the notes of these meetings are included at APPENDIX A. The following schools participated: Broad Haven CP, Cleddau Reach VC, Haverfordwest VC, Hook CP, Johnston CP, Mary Immaculate, Prendergast CP, Roch CP, Sir Thomas Picton School, St Aidan’s VA, St Mark’s VA and Tasker Milward VC School.

5. Consultation Correspondence

5.1 Volume and Profile of Responses Received

A total of 315 responses were received via the online web link, general and “pupil-friendly” response forms or emails/letters. The breakdown is as follows:

Online web link / hard copy forms 306 Letters / emails 9 TOTAL 315

The profile of respondents is given below, and reflects all descriptions given. The total does not therefore equal the total of responses received. Responses from: Number Pupils 63 Parents / Relatives 145 Staff / Governors 51 Residents 96 Respondents’ interest Sir Thomas Picton 45 Sir Thomas Picton feeder school 15 Tasker Milward 56 Tasker Milward feeder school 13

All responses are included as APPENDIX B.

5.2 Response from Estyn

The Council has received a detailed response to the proposal from Estyn. Its overall conclusion of the proposal is as follows:

For the most part, the proposer provides an appropriate rationale and addresses suitably a number of relevant risks associated with the closure of the two schools and the establishment of a new 11-19 English medium school in Haverfordwest. While there are a number of areas that require further clarification, for example, how the benefits envisaged will be realised whilst the school operates over two sites, or in the event that the council is not able to secure funding for the building of a new school, it appears that the proposal would at least maintain standards of education or wellbeing of pupils directly affected by the closures.

The full response to the proposal from Estyn is attached in APPENDIX C.

5.3 Response from Pembrokeshire College

The Council has received a detailed response to the proposal from Pembrokeshire College. Its overall conclusion of the proposal is summarised as follows:

o The Governing Body does not support the proposals to develop an 11-19 English medium secondary school in Haverfordwest, on the basis that we firmly believe that it is not in the best interests of the learners in Pembrokeshire.

o In our opinion, the Consultation Document does not set out a clear framework of analysis on which the proposals can be judged. Fundamental to evaluating the proposals is a need to assess critically the performance of Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools. Data is provided in the Consultation Document, but it lacks explanation or interpretation. In particular, it is not clear that: o Both the schools are in Estyn special measures o The performance of the school, as judged by Estyn and national school categorisations has been worsening. o The failure to explain the extent of the problems, facing the schools, means that the document does not address either the cause of those problems or how the proposals will address those problems. This lack of context is fundamental to addressing the adequacy of the proposals. o If the extent of the problems were more clearly described in the document it would provide the reader with a better understanding of the scale of the changes required and the speed with which a solution is needed, so further generations of learners are not “failed”. o The proposals have significant shortcomings in setting out key information, necessary for a decision to be taken and are abstruse as to the way in which the proposals will impact the learner, other educational establishments and will provide value for money. Because of these shortcomings, we believe that the document is in breach of the School Organisation code (006/2013). o Our fundamental concern is that these proposals are self-evidently not in the best interest of the learner. The document recognises that the proposals are being driven politically, without explaining the rational grounds of why a “political decision” is in the best interests of the learner. Unfortunately, a close examination of the document indicates that the proposals are making, what can only be described as “the best of a bad job”. We do not think this is the basis on which the education of Pembrokeshire learners should be determined. o The proposals do not address the strategic issue of how education can be improved across Pembrokeshire for the benefit of the learner. Looking at one aspect in isolation is unlikely to provide an optimum solution. In this regard, the proposals are ignoring the advice of the Welsh Government.

The full response to the proposal from Pembrokeshire College is included in APPENDIX B (referenced as HW8).

6. Consultation Responses

All comments received during the consultation period are available to view as part of this report (APPENDIX B). A qualitative analysis of these comments has been undertaken which reveals a number of issues, a detailed list of which, along with the Authority’s appropriate responses, are given below. The aim of the analysis has been to capture, interpret and present the public’s perception in relation to the proposal as faithfully as possible. All comments have been afforded equal weighting, regardless of their source, or the extent of the content.

Where consultees chose to utilise the online or hard-copy response forms provided, they were asked to indicate to what extent they agreed or disagreed with two statements. The findings in relation to these statements are shown below. The shaded areas denote respondents’ dominant views.

6.1 General Consensus

6.1.1 A New English medium 11-19 school – close Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools and establish a new 11-19 English medium school for Haverfordwest

To what extent do you agree or disagree with what is proposed?

No. % Strongly Agree 108 35 Agree 107 35 Neither 20 6 Disagree 33 11 Strongly Disagree 36 12 No reply 2 1 TOTAL 306

Overall, approximately 70% of responses indicate agreement with the Council’s proposal, with 35% stating that they “strongly agree”. It should be noted that in respect of many respondents who noted “Strongly Agree” or “Agree” to the above statement that this was conditional; for example:  That split site provision should only be for a short period of time;  That the schools remained as separate entities until such time as capital funding was assured or where a new school building was ready to be occupied.

The majority of supportive comments received recognise the Case for Change, predominantly because of the need to improve standards. The perception appears to have an evidential basis, being founded on personal experience and/or an understanding of the gravity of not having any schools classified as Good or Outstanding and recent Estyn judgements.

The essence of the concerns raised in relation to this element of the proposal can be summarised as follows: 1. Agreement with the proposal, but concerns expressed that the split site provision would be further detrimental to standards and staff morale. As part of this concern, it was felt that the two current schools should be maintained until such time as a new school is ready to be occupied, or a split site arrangement to be in operation for a limited time only. 2. Disagreement with the proposal on the basis that the Council’s original 11-16 model should have been retained. It was considered that this model would have allowed

school standards at KS4 to recover/improve quicker and that there should be a common post 16 strategy across Pembrokeshire. 3. Disagreement on the basis that the Council should be concentrating on improving school standards in the current schools. As part of this, there is concern of the perception that a new school/new buildings will “cure all ills”. Furthermore, it is felt that maintaining the current schools would allow for any future growth in pupil numbers. 4. Significant concerns from Portfield School regarding the omission of ‘satellite’ provision at the new school. 5. Concerns at the resulting size of the school and the potential for large classes. 6. Concerns regarding amalgamation without any certainty of capital funding or Council’s commitment towards a new school build. As part of this, there are concerns that there is “no Plan B”.

6.1.2 Catchment Changes – designate Johnston CP School and Neyland CP School as feeder schools to Milford Haven School. Extend the catchment area of Milford Haven School to encompass the catchment areas of Johnston and Neyland.

To what extent you agree or disagree with what is proposed?

No. % Strongly Agree 63 21 Agree 90 29 Neither 92 30 Disagree 25 8 Strongly Disagree 32 11 No reply 4 1 TOTAL 306

Approximately 50% of responses indicate agreement with the Council’s proposal in relation to catchment changes; again many of such responses are conditional on understanding further the commitment to Milford Haven School. A significant number of respondents (30%) indicated a neutral position in relation to this question.

However, a number of concerns/observations were made regarding the proposal, the essence of which can be summarised as follows:

1. Concern at the policy towards the admission of siblings and the retention of parental choice in expressing a preference for a chosen school. 2. Concerns regarding standards at Milford Haven School and/or the school’s ability to accommodate an increase in pupil numbers. 3. Concern that the areas in question have an affinity/attachment with a particular school, either due to its historic links or its physical location/postal address. Furthermore, this concern extends to the logistics in relation to home/work/travel arrangements. 4. Concern that pupils will have to change school midway through their school or at key stages of their education. 5. Observations that there should be no change to catchment areas and that the new school should be large enough to accommodate all pupils.

6.1.3 Alternatives to the proposal Respondents provided a number of alternatives to the proposal; the majority of these can be categorised under the following headings:

 Maintain status quo – preference for keeping both schools and concentrating on improving standards and the condition of school buildings;  Preference for 3-16 or 11-16 models, with post 16 provision at Pembrokeshire College or a separate Sixth Form facility;  Need to consider the needs of Portfield School in relation to secondary mainstream provision. It is considered that the current sector-leading practice in relation to partnerships, identified by Estyn in 2013, needs to be maintained;  Consider utilising the Sir Thomas Picton site, both in terms of: o a location for the new school due to its good sports facilities and overall size; o a single site location for the new entity whilst the new build takes place on the Tasker Milward site. This would entail utilising adjacent Council buildings, such as the Pembrokeshire Archive and/or Cherry Grovel;  Construct new school on a site at the edge of town: o Adjacent to the new Welsh medium school in Withybush, thereby providing the opportunity for joint facilities; o Utilising the site of the Welsh medium school for English Medium thereby allowing that school to use existing facilities at either STP or TM; o Construct new school at Slade Lane, i.e. where infrastructure has already been put in place;  As proposed, but with both sites being retained for lower and upper school configuration.

Comments / Concerns Response to Comments / Concerns Agreement with the proposal, but Parents should be assured that a split-site provision will be in place for a limited time only and any concerns expressed that the split site disruption to pupils will be minimised as much as possible. It is not accepted, however, that such provision would be further detrimental provision will be further detrimental to standards and staff morale. There can be no doubt that to standards and staff morale. As part both Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward are failing schools and the primary purpose of the of this concern, it was felt that the two school organisation proposal is to effect school improvement. It is considered imperative to effect current schools should be maintained organisational change at the earliest opportunity in order that new, effective leadership can be put until such time as a new school is in place - “A common characteristic of successful secondary school is strong leadership” (Estyn, ready to be occupied, or a split site 2013). Clearly the full benefit of an amalgamation will not be felt until the school occupies new arrangement to be in operation for a 21st century premises; however, a new school for Haverfordwest under new leadership will limited time only. provide the opportunity of reversing the current trend of failure sooner rather than later.

It should be noted that both secondary schools are actively working in collaboration now, and both have recognised the benefits of doing so, for the common good of all pupils. There are many strengths in both schools – all staff would benefit from taking the best, more effective, least time consuming practices as their common way forward.

Disagreement with the proposal on An 11-16 model was the basis of Council’s proposals for mid and north west Pembrokeshire until the basis that the Council’s original May 2016. However, following statutory consultation undertaken during March to April 2016 and 11-16 model should have been the consideration of the subsequent Consultation Report, Council resolved not to proceed with this retained. It was considered that this model but expressed a preference to proceed with a new proposal for 11-19 secondary provision model would have allowed school in Haverfordwest. standards at KS4 to recover/improve quicker and that there should be a The Local Authority and Secondary Schools are working towards a Pembrokeshire solution for common post 16 strategy across post-16 schools delivery from September 2018. Pembrokeshire. Agreed principals are: • Learner focussed • No pupil movement during the day • Financial viability • Financial transparency – a clear model must be agreed • Pupil progression pathways – clear to all stakeholders • Impartial Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) • Offer reflects requirements of Higher Education and the needs of the County – 21st Century offer and an honest look at the curriculum – not finance driven, and including the use of technology

Comments / Concerns Response to Comments / Concerns • Ownership of outcomes and quality assurance • Employability pathways – ambitions and skills – working with the local business community.

Disagreement on the basis that the The Council and the regional school improvement service (ERW) is already providing significant Council should be concentrating on support to improve standards at both Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools. It is improving school standards in the acknowledged that there is a perception that a new school/new buildings will be seen by some to current schools. As part of this, there be a cure to the respective failing schools; however it is understood that school improvement is concern of the perception that a cannot be brought about by new buildings alone. The purpose of school organisation in new school/new buildings will “cure all Haverfordwest is to bring about change with a view to securing school improvement; this will be ills”. Furthermore, it is felt that achieved, in the main, by the introduction of new leadership - it is recognised that the key factor in maintaining the current schools would a school’s success is good leadership. The best way to improve standards for existing pupils is to allow for any future growth in pupil focus on closer collaboration of both sets of staff to improve practice. numbers. Maintaining two secondary schools in Haverfordwest does not address surplus places. In 2016, the level of surplus places at Tasker Milward stood at 38%, i.e. 402 places. In its report on the quality of local authority education services for children and young people in Pembrokeshire in 2012, Estyn concluded that, amongst other matters, “…the authority is responding too slowly to the increasing level of surplus places in the secondary sector”. The Welsh Government continues to recommend that there should be no more than 10% surplus places across primary and secondary schools. Whilst continuing to maintain two secondary schools may provide some assurance of being able to allow for any future growth in pupil numbers, such growth cannot be guaranteed. Significant concerns from Portfield Portfield School’s concerns are acknowledged and understood. The Council recognises the School regarding the omission of ‘sector leading’ work being undertaken and that the proximity of Tasker Milward and Portfield ‘satellite’ provision at the new school. schools lends itself to this partnership. Should the proposal be approved, such partnership working can continue, as the new school would need to operate from two sites in the short term, including Tasker Milward. As described elsewhere in this document, work is ongoing to assess the feasibility of utilising either of the current secondary school sites, i.e. the Council’s preference, in order to construct the new school. This feasibility includes an assessment of complex infrastructure and planning issues, amongst others, and has to take into account the projected pupil numbers for the proposed school. The continuation of Portfield’s satellite provision is included within this feasibility.

Comments / Concerns Response to Comments / Concerns Concerns at the resulting size of the This is a natural concern for parents but it should be noted that upon implementation of the school and the potential for large proposal, pupils will remain on the two existing sites. In the longer term, it is anticipated that classes. capital investment will be available to build a new school.

The following information in relation to large schools is relevant:

 A report entitled “School size and educational effectiveness” (Estyn, School size and educational effectiveness, Dec 2013) provides compelling evidence which suggests that larger schools “tend to perform better than small and medium-sized schools”.  It is recognised that the key factor in a school’s success is good leadership – “All schools, irrespective of size, can perform well where the quality of leadership is good or excellent…”.  “A common characteristic of successful secondary school is strong leadership”  “Large secondary schools need less follow-up activity after inspection than small and medium- sized secondary schools”  “The quality of teaching in small and medium-sized secondary schools is broadly similar. It is stronger in large secondary schools. Large schools tend to have better arrangements for professional development and quality assurance, while these systems are less well developed in small and medium-sized schools.  “In general, curriculum provision is broader and better balanced in large secondary schools. Nearly all large secondary schools provide good or better learning experiences for their pupils… Large secondary schools are able to offer a wider range of options due to economies of scale”.  “Curriculum provision is better in large primary schools. In small schools, there tends to be shortcomings in the provision of foundation subjects at key stage 2. These shortcomings differ from school to school, but are often linked to gaps in the expertise of staff”.

A survey of the largest secondary schools in Wales, i.e. those with >1500 pupils, indicates that there are 17 such schools with 70% being in the highest two national support categories – Green and Yellow; 8 of these schools are in the group requiring the least support.

Large secondary schools do not necessarily equate to large class sizes.

Comments / Concerns Response to Comments / Concerns Concerns regarding amalgamation School organisation is a necessary, but separate process to that of obtaining capital funding; the without any certainty of capital funding primary purpose of school organisation is to secure organisational change to effect school or Council’s commitment towards a improvement; as explained elsewhere in this document, this is the purpose of amalgamating the new school build. As part of this, two Haverfordwest schools. there are concerns that there is “no Plan B”. The only source of capital funding is via Welsh Government’s 21st Century Schools Programme. Under current arrangements, projects are funded 50:50 by Welsh Government and the County Council and such funding is subject to a considerable amount of scrutiny as part of the necessary business case process. However, all business cases submitted by the Council to Welsh Government as part of Band A of the programme have been approved; this should provide a strong degree of confidence that similar applications for Band B project would be approved.

The Council has already submitted an expression of interest to Welsh Government for its Band B programme and a new secondary school for Haverfordwest forms part of that. A further submission will be made by July 2017 in the form of a Strategic Outline Programme, subject to Council approval.

Concern at the policy towards the Parental preference for a chosen school will be maintained, i.e. as part of the Council’s Admissions admission of siblings and the retention arrangements. The policy in relation to siblings is currently being considered and will ensure that it of parental choice in expressing a is consistent with the implementation of other secondary reorganisations in Pembrokeshire. It is preference for a chosen school. acknowledged that it is difficult for parents to provide the essential support for their children and the schools they attend, if siblings attend multiple schools, and the above policy will reflect this.

Concerns regarding standards at Attainment and benchmarking data for Milford Haven School is provided below and has been Milford Haven School and/or the obtained from My Local School. school’s ability to accommodate an In the short term, Milford Haven School will be able to accommodate an increase in pupil numbers. increase in pupil numbers. However, in the longer term, additional capacity will need to be provided; this will be addressed as part of the Council’s 21st Century Schools Band B programme, i.e. subject to Council approval.

At KS4, the performance at L2i improved from 43.3% in 2015 to 51.7% in 2016. This accounts for an improvement of 8.4% and 13.7% over 2 years).

Comments / Concerns Response to Comments / Concerns

Milford Haven School National Categorisation 2016: Standards Group / Improvement Capacity / Support Category 3C / Amber Free School Meals – 3 year average (FSM Group) – 2016 22.3% Attendance during 2016 93.2% Pupils achieving the expected level in the core subjects at KS3 – 2016 84.3% The percentage of pupils achieving at least level 5 in English or Welsh (first language), mathematics and science in combination. Pupils achieving the Level 1 threshold 98% The volume of qualification equivalent to the volume of 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-G Pupils achieving the Level 2 threshold 84.1% The volume of qualifications equivalent to the volume of 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-C Pupils achieving the Level 2 threshold inclusive (L2i) 51.7% The volume of qualifications equivalent to the volume of 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-C including one in English or Welsh first language and one in Mathematics Benchmarking of L2i performance with schools with similar FSM: Highest Performing school in FSM group 71.7% Lowest Performing school in FSM group 39%

Concern that the areas in question Catchment areas are used as part of the authority’s Admissions Policy where they are included in have an affinity/attachment with a the criteria for determining places at oversubscribed schools. In the case of Johnston and Neyland particular school, either due to its CP schools, the former is a feeder school to Tasker Milward VC school and Neyland, a feeder to historic links or its physical Sir Thomas Picton school. It is recognised that certain areas have a greater affinity or attachment location/postal address. Furthermore, to a school or a location than others; however the history in relation to the schools in question this concern extends to the logistics in suggests that the schools previously served secondary education provision in Milford Haven. relation to home/work/travel Milford Haven School was established in September 1988 following the closure of the Milford arrangements. Haven Grammar School and the Milford Haven (Central) County Secondary School. As part of the changes made in 1988, the statutory notice stated that pupils residing in the catchment area of Johnston CP and Neyland CP Infant and Junior schools would attend Sir Thomas Picton School in Haverfordwest.

A number of responses cite the postal addresses of the areas in question, i.e. Haverfordwest and

Comments / Concerns Response to Comments / Concerns Milford Haven for Johnston and Neyland respectively. From a distance perspective, Johnston is equidistant to both Haverfordwest and Milford Haven, and Neyland is clearly closer to Milford Haven. In this regard, it is acknowledged that many people choose home locations on the basis of the schools their children will attend; this also applies to work locations and leads to the logistical arrangements parents make around childcare, school and work. Concern that pupils will have to No pupil will be required to change school during this statutory process or subsequently. That is to change school midway through their say that if a pupil attends either Sir Thomas Picton School or Tasker Milward School at the time of school or at key stages of their implementation, s/he will not be required to attend another school as a result of catchment education. changes. The exception being where parental preference dictates that such a change is preferred. Observations that there should be no Such views are respected, however, the primary reason for catchment changes is to equalise pupil change to catchment areas and that numbers across different schools, in this case, the new school in Haverfordwest and Milford Haven the new school should be large School. Such changes would result in both Haverfordwest and Milford Haven having secondary enough to accommodate all pupils. schools of around 1500-1600 pupils. Need to consider utilising the Sir The Council’s preference is to establish a new school on one of the existing schools sites as part Thomas Picton school site, both in of Band B of the 21st Century Schools Programme. Work to establish the feasibility of utilising terms of: these sites is ongoing and such work will need to consider various significant infrastructure and o A location for the new school due planning issues. to its good sports facilities and overall size It cannot be argued that the Sir Thomas Picton site provides an excellent location for a new school o A single site location for the new and has established and well-used sports facilities; however the site does present a number of school entity whilst the new build significant access issues and these will need to be fully addressed as part of the feasibility takes place on the Tasker Milward process. site. This includes utilising adjacent Council buildings, such The use of adjacent Council buildings is not being considered at this point. as the Pembrokeshire Archive and/or Cherry Grove. Need to consider establishing a new The Council’s preference is to establish the new school on one of the current school sites. Both school on a site at the edge of town: sites have the benefit of having had an educational use for quite some time and generations of o Adjacent to the new Welsh children have attended the schools. There are a number of issues that have to be considered in medium school in Withybush, relation to the siting of such a school, many of which have significant infrastructure and planning thereby providing the opportunity constraints. for joint facilities o Utilising the site of the Welsh In relation to the new Welsh medium school, the site is not sufficiently large to be able to medium school for English medium accommodate a school of more than approximately 1200 pupils – a change in use is therefore not

Comments / Concerns Response to Comments / Concerns provision thereby allowing that feasible. While it is acknowledged that the sharing of certain facilities/resources across two school to use existing or new secondary schools is attractive in terms of efficiency, an ‘out of town’ site for English Medium is not facilities at either STP or TM. preferred due to the following: o Utilising the Slade Lane site, off  Planning officers have expressed concern that the site lies outside the boundaries of Thomas Parry Way, where Haverfordwest infrastructure has already been put  The site is not in walking/cycling distance of any major settlement and would cause in place. additional vehicular journeys. It should be noted that the decision to site a Welsh medium school in Withybush is justified on the basis that the school would serve a much wider area and therefore it is more likely that significantly fewer pupils would walk/cycle to school.

The option of utilising Slade Lane has been discounted on the basis that the land designated for community use is insufficiently large to accommodate an English medium school. Furthermore, the significant costs associated with purchasing additional land designated for retail/residential use would not represent value for money. Such factors are likely to be of concern to Welsh Government when reviewing business cases. Establishing a lower/upper school This is a possible scenario and one which would be considered as a pragmatic approach to configuration as part of the proposal. reducing duplication across two sites. It should be noted, however, that such a decision would rest with the temporary governing body of the new school.

6.2 Issues raised by Estyn

Estyn asserts that “for the most part…(the Council) provides an appropriate rationale and addresses suitably a number of relevant risks associated with the closure of the two schools and the establishment of a new 11-19 English medium school in Haverfordwest”. Whilst Estyn’s opinion of the proposal is shown in Para. 5.2, a number of supplementary comments are made. These and the Authority’s response are outlined below.

CONCERN / COMMENT RESPONSE 1. The proposer sets out the findings It is not accepted that the presentation of pupils’ from the most recent inspections of outcomes at Key Stage 4 has a number of the two schools and also the national shortcomings; the School Organisation Code categorisation of each school well. does not specify the level of detail or analysis This serves to make a credible case required to be provided in consultation that standards, provision and documents, except to explain: leadership across both schools  The likely impact of the proposals on the require improvement. However, quality of the following: proposer’s presentation of pupils’ o Outcomes outcomes at KS4 has a number of o Provision shortcomings: o Leadership and management  The analysis in Table 1 (Page 20) …at the school or schools which are the subject … does not identify how well of the proposals… each school performed in these  Information from the most recent Estyn indicators in comparison to reports for each school likely to be affected similar schools (benchmarking).  The likely impact of the proposals on the As each school’s free school ability of school or schools which are the meal population differs, this subject of the proposals or any other school omission does not allow for a which is likely to be affected, to deliver the full clear comparison of curriculum at the foundation phase and each performance… key stage of education.  The analysis in Table 2 (Page (School Organistion Code) 21)…is focussed exclusively on the level 2 indicator including The source of the information provided on Pages English and Mathematics and 20-21 of the Consultation Document is therefore provides too narrow a My Local School.wales.gov.uk. This resource view of the performance at KS4. has been developed “to allow on-line access to  The presentation of data across detailed data about the performance of a school both tables omits the schools’ and to help parents understand, engage with and performance in important support their local school”. indicators such as the average capped points score indicator. The data and analysis provided at the end of this  Whilst there is some indication of table is in response to Estyn’s comments. the trend in performance since 2009 in the level 2 indicator including English and Mathematics at Tasker Milward, the proposer does not provide similar trend information for the performance in this indicator of STP. 2. The proposal asserts an advantage Subject to approval, the proposal will comprise a of the proposal that a rationalised new, financially sustainable Sixth Form “hub” Sixth Form provision in the new provision. It will offer a wide range of subject 21

CONCERN / COMMENT RESPONSE school will be central to the delivery options accessible to all learners in other of a county-wide solution for sixth Pembrokeshire secondary schools; these form delivery. However, the “spoke” providers will offer a smaller range of proposal does not explain how the options in their own centres. This model will new school would be ‘central’ to the remove duplication of provision, negate the need solution or refer to any strategic for pupil transfer during the day as currently document to support the benefits to exists in both Pembrokeshire Federations, and pupils described. protect the provision of subject areas that traditionally attract small learner numbers. The model is currently being discussed with secondary headteachers, with plans to move toward the new structure for September 2018.

3. The proposer states that the Council The Council has already submitted its expression will consider accessing Band B of of interest in Band B of the 21st Century Schools Welsh Government’s 21st Century Programme. Subject to Council approval, a Schools programme to address this further submission will be made to Welsh (the physical condition of the two Government in July 2017 in the form of a schools). It asserts credibly that, Strategic Outline Programme. should this funding be available, it would be in a position to greatly In the short term, it is proposed that the new enhance the learning environment school would operate by utilising the sites of the for pupils. However, as funding has current schools; however, subject to obtaining not yet been applied for, it is not Band B funding, the school’s learning possible to establish whether environment will be greatly enhanced by aspects of the plan are achievable or providing a new build school, preferably on one how well they will be implemented. of these sites. 4. The proposal does not contain a The proposal represents an opportunity to clear interim or alternative plan that improve outcomes for learners sooner rather has been suitably costed for the than later – this is the priority. maintenance and improvement of the learning environments at either or It is in the interests of learners in Haverfordwest both sites should the council be for the strengths of both schools to be used as a unable to access resources under collective to address the weaknesses currently in Band B of the 21st Century Schools place. There is an opportunity to appoint a programme. In addition, as neither headteacher who can lead the two schools from site has sufficient capacity currently their current status to good or better. This to accommodate all pupils of the appointment is critical and of greater importance newly established school, if it is not than buildings or two site arrangements. able to access funding, the school may not be able to realise the full The proposal does not include costed plans for range of economies of scale interim or alternative provision should the Council outlined. be unable to access resources under Band B. There are significant issues in relation to the condition of both school buildings and the costly maintenance and improvement of these buildings does not represent value for money. The Council recognises that a new school build in Haverfordwest is necessary in order to fully realise the benefits derived from amalgamation.

CONCERN / COMMENT RESPONSE However, it is acknowledged that the school may not be able to realise the full range of economies of scale if Band B funding is refused.

5. The proposal does not identify the The majority of the temporary GB will be measures it will take to ensure that appointed by the LA, as per Regulations. If the the current governing bodies or the school is a VC school, the Trustees will appoint temporary governing body of the new some foundation governors. In making its school will have suitable experience appointments, the LA will appoint governors it and expertise, beyond engagement believes will have the necessary skills and are of local authority services to suitably experienced. The Welsh Government governors, to support the school has recently consulted on proposal to reform through the period of transition and school governance. The outcome of the to ensure that all learners benefit consultation, and the new Regulations arising equally from the proposed changes. from it, are not yet published. The new GB will be appointed as directed by the new Regs. However, Welsh Government are proposing that governors who are appointed should have the appropriate skills for the post. 6. The council asserts credibly that the  Curriculum arrangements will ensure that proposal will not affect its travel disruption will be minimised for all learners. policy. However, as the proposal Whilst the decision regarding the does not specify how the curriculum configuration of the school across two sites will be delivered, at least in the would rest with the temporary governing interim, across both sites, it is not body, it is anticipated that they would not possible to assess whether the necessitate pupil travel between the two sites. proposal will adversely affect  In relation to pupils at feeder primary schools, learners’ travel arrangements. If the Council’s school transport policy will travel between sites is envisaged, apply, i.e. the Council will provide transport the proposer has not identified where a child of compulsory school age suitably the range of possible travel receiving secondary education, lives over risks in this event. Nor has the three miles from the nearest suitable school. council considered fully the impact on the travel arrangements of those pupils at feeder primary school that will no longer come within the catchment of the new school. 7. The proposal has not identified or set Subject to approval, the Council, in conjunction out how it will seek to minimise the with the temporary governing body will undertake risk of disruption to pupils on to ensure that any disruption to pupils is examination courses of any changes. minimised. 8. The proposal does not consider the Curriculum arrangements will ensure that impact on disabled learners if disruption will be minimised for all learners. Both curriculum arrangements necessitate Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools travel between two sites. have Accessibility Plans in place and these set out the need to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ in order to accommodate for disabled learners. Whilst the decision regarding the configuration of the school across two sites would rest with the temporary governing body, it is anticipated that they would not necessitate pupil travel between the two sites. 23

Attainment and Benchmarking Data – My Local School

Key Stage 4 Attainment and Benchmarking STP TM Average capped points score The average capped wider points score is calculated using the best 8 results from all qualifications approved for pre-16 use in Wales for each pupil. All pupils 352.5 319.1 By FSM 317.9 233.1 Average capped points score - Highest performing in FSM group – all pupils 388 384 Average capped points score - Lowest performing in FSM group – all pupils 319.1 309.8

Pupils achieving the Level 1 threshold The volume of qualifications equivalent to the volume of 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-G All pupils 96.2% 94.6% By FSM 100% 81.8% Level 1 threshold – Highest performing in FSM group – all pupils 100% 100% Level 1 threshold – Lowest performing in FSM group – all pupils 90.8% 94.4%

Pupils achieving the Level 2 threshold The volume of qualifications equivalent to the volume of 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-C All pupils 88.9% 70.5% By FSM 76.9% 27.3% Level 2 threshold – Highest performing in FSM group – all pupils 100% 100% Level 2 threshold – Lowest performing in FSM group – all pupils 64.6% 57.1%

Pupils achieving the Level 2 threshold inclusive (L2i) The volume of qualifications equivalent to the volume of 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-C including one in English or Welsh first language and one in Mathematics. All pupils 62% 51% By FSM 7.7% 9.1% Level 2 (L2i) threshold – Highest performing in FSM group – all pupils 88.1% 81.7% Level 2 (L2i) threshold – Lowest performing in FSM group – all pupils 55% 40.6%

Sir Thomas Picton – L2i trend (Source: My Local School)

Tasker Milward – L2i trend (Source: My Local School)

6.3 Issues raised by Pembrokeshire College

Pembrokeshire College asserts that it does not support the proposal and that its “fundamental concern is that these proposals are self-evidently not in the best interests of the learner”. The College’s principal concerns and the Authority’s responses are outlined below.

CONCERN / COMMENT RESPONSE 1. The Consultation Document does not It is not accepted that the published Consultation set out a clear framework of analysis Document does not set out a clear framework of on which the proposals can be analysis on which the proposals can be judged. judged. Fundamental to evaluating the proposals is a need to assess The Consultation Document explicitly states that critically the performance of Sir both Sir Thomas Picton School and Tasker Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward Milward are both currently in Estyn Special schools. Data is provided in the Measures. Furthermore, published details of the Consultation Document, but it lacks outcomes of follow-up visits are provided. explanation or interpretation. In particular, it is not clear that: The Consultation Document also explicitly o Both the schools are in Estyn provides details of the national categorisation of special measures both schools (as at the date of publication of the o The performance of the school, document). as judged by Estyn and national school categorisations has been The Consultation document complies with the worsening. School Organisation Code requirement to provide “information from the most recent Estyn reports for each school likely to be affected”. 2. The failure to explain the extent of It is not accepted that there is a failure to explain the problems, facing the schools, the extent of the problems facing the schools. means that the document does not The extent of the issues facing Sir Thomas address either the cause of those Picton and Tasker Milward schools are explicitly problems or how the proposals will stated within the Consultation Document as address those problems. This lack follows: of context is fundamental to  Strengths and Weaknesses table on Pages addressing the adequacy of the 12-13 proposals.  Current School Standards – Pages 17-21, including “Education standards in the area 3. If the extent of the problems were are poor and both Sir Thomas Picton and more clearly described in the Tasker Milward schools are in Estyn ‘Special document it would provide the reader Measures’” with a better understanding of the  The Case for Change – Pages 22-24. scale of the changes required and the speed with which a solution is Similarly, it is not accepted that there is a lack of needed, so further generations of clarity in respect of how the proposal will address learners are not “failed”. the above problems. Paragraph 5.3 of the Consultation Document provides a detailed account of how the proposal will make an impact on the following areas: o Outcomes (standards and wellbeing) o Provision (learning experiences, teaching, care, support and guidance and the learning environment)

CONCERN / COMMENT RESPONSE o Leadership and Management (leadership, improving quality, partnership working and resource management).

4. The proposals have significant It is not considered that the proposal has shortcomings in setting out key “significant shortcomings in setting out key information, necessary for a decision information”. All information required to be to be taken and are abstruse as to provided is included in the Consultation the way in which the proposals will Document and is therefore compliant with the impact the learner, other educational School Organisation Code. establishments and will provide value for money. Because of these shortcomings, we believe that the document is in breach of the School Organisation code (006/2013).

5. Our fundamental concern is that It is in the interests of learners in Haverfordwest these proposals are self-evidently for the strengths of both schools to be used as a not in the best interest of the learner. collective to address the weaknesses currently in The document recognises that the place. There is an opportunity to appoint a proposals are being driven politically, headteacher who can lead the two schools from without explaining the rational their current status to good or better. This grounds of why a “political decision” appointment is critical and of greater importance is in the best interests of the learner. than buildings or two site arrangements. Unfortunately, a close examination of the document indicates that the proposals are making, what can only be described as “the best of a bad job”. We do not think this is the basis on which the education of Pembrokeshire learners should be determined.

6. The proposals do not address the Alongside the School Organisation strategy, the strategic issue of how education can county’s Leadership and Teaching and Learning be improved across Pembrokeshire strategies work cohesively to collectively improve for the benefit of the learner. the fabric of education in Pembrokeshire. Looking at one aspect in isolation is unlikely to provide an optimum The Sixth Form hub provision will offer a broader solution. In this regard, the range of subjects to all Pembrokeshire learners proposals are ignoring the advice of to address the strategic need for sustainable the Welsh Government. Sixth Form delivery to the benefit of the learner.

APPENDIX A

Review of English-medium Secondary Education Provision in Haverfordwest School Council Conference – Monday 30th January 2017 The Pembrokeshire Archives, Prendergast, Haverfordwest Primary Schools – 9.30am – 11.30am QUESTIONS PUPILS ASKED The Head-teacher ▪ How will one head-teacher manage two sites? ▪ Would the head-teacher travel back and for? ▪ Which head-teachers will be head of both schools? ▪ How will they decide the head-teacher? ▪ Why can’t the current acting heads of STP and TM stay in control of their current sites? ▪ There should be a head-teacher on each site Teachers and subjects / lessons etc ▪ Will there be more teachers? ▪ Will there be new subjects, additional facilities? ▪ How will they split the teachers? Size of the school / classes ▪ Too many children? How many children? ▪ How many children will there be in each class? ▪ How many classes per year? ▪ How many children in a class? ▪ How big will the classroom / hall be? ▪ Would the halls be big enough on each site – would assemblies need to be at different times because of the size of the school. Would separate assemblies be better? Uniforms ▪ What will the uniform be like? Will it cost more for those who have already got it? ▪ What will the school uniforms be like? The way the school would run ▪ How will they decide which pupils will go to which site? ▪ How will the Assembly be run? ▪ How would Sports Day work? ▪ Would year groups be split over the different sites? ▪ Would children from the same site be together for lunch etc Travelling to and from school ▪ How would transport work? ▪ Would the buses use the same routes? (St Aidans) Other questions ▪ Will everything change? ▪ Why can’t this come into effect this year, so the current Year 6 have time to get used to it? ▪ Why can’t be sent more pupils to Tasker Milward, so we can balance out the numbers? ▪ How long will it be like this (on two sites)? ▪ Good idea for year 7,8,9 in Taskers and year 10,11,12 and 13 in STP

BAD THINGS ABOUT THE PROPOSAL Head-teacher ▪ Head-teacher would need to split themselves between two sites Size of the school / classes ▪ There might not be enough pupils ▪ There might be too many pupils in each class ▪ Not as good educationally if schools is so big

The way the school would run and facilities available ▪ It would be hard to run both schools at the same time ▪ Learning won’t be easy as the teachers would have to do some lessons and if they have already done the lesson and the other has not they would have to repeat the lesson ▪ How would they do concerts as it would be awkward ▪ If two sites are used it wouldn’t be fair if one was repaired or had an extension and not the other ▪ Pupils may have to move across the two sites during the school day ▪ If standards at the school are poor if will affect all of the children in H/West ▪ Inequality of sports provision across the two sites ▪ Really big field needed for sports day ▪ You would have to go to each school different days Travelling to and from school ▪ If Johnston went to Milford it would be further ▪ More travel so more expensive for parents and buses ▪ Difficult for parents if siblings on two different sites – cost for transport ▪ More transporting of children – bus will need to travel more ▪ Parents may have to send their child to a site which is further from home ▪ Harder to get to and from school (Merlin’s Bridge) Being Together??? ▪ Transferring to a new school after they have been in one school for a few years and made good friends ▪ School might have a argument for what uniform they would prefer to be in ▪ It might affect people because they don’t want to combine the two schools together ▪ Catchment change – siblings could be split up across different schools ▪ Catchment change – loss of friends at current secondary schools ▪ We have friends who live in Milford and Neyland ▪ Fighting ▪ Siblings getting split up – you won’t get to see your older siblings Other comments ▪ Not enough options in Haverfordwest ▪ We don’t know what would happen ▪ Some children may be expecting to go to the new school and then that won’t happen and they may be apprehensive ▪ Catchment change is a BIG change

GOOD THINGS ABOUT THE PROPOSAL Head-teacher and other teachers ▪ With the schools changing, the new school would get the best teachers ▪ More new teachers Management of the school / school facilities ▪ Bigger school, so it will get a lot more money ▪ More choices for subjects (GCSE, A Level) ▪ It might make it a better school for pupils ▪ More money, leading to better facilities ▪ It will make more money to get better stuff for classes, toilets and for the outside sports ▪ Different facilities in both schools and would help with lessons ▪ It gets Taskers more students ▪ Better equipment available at school ▪ Might learn more because it is one school ▪ Schools would have more money to buy better equipment ▪ School concerts would be larger 32

Travelling to and from school ▪ It will be easier for pupils in Haverfordwest because the new school will be in Haverfordwest ▪ If Neyland went to Milford it would be closer ▪ Don’t have to go as far Being together!!! ▪ Year sixes will all go to the same school, don’t get split up ▪ You can stay with your friends ▪ Better opportunities to meet more people ▪ Fair / same opportunities for military children (who often go away and come back again) ▪ Some can get with friends that would not usually be with ▪ Year six groups can go to the same schools ▪ Parents won’t have to choose between STP and Tasker Milward ▪ More people to make friends with Other comments ▪ You might get a better job when you are older ▪ Choice with parent choice ▪ Won’t affect us because we will move up with our year group

VOX POP Close STP and TM VC School on 31/08/17. Change the catchment area for Milford Haven Open a new 11 – 19 English-medium school in School so that it includes the areas of Haverfordwest on 01/09/18, using both school Johnston and Neyland sites Agree 5 Agree 4 Haven’t decided yet 39 Haven’t decided yet 13 Disagree 2 Disagree 29 Total 46 Total 46

▪ How will new head appointment work? And Deputy? Option to consider Acting Head or go out to national advert. Both Acting Heads are eligible to be deputies, or could go out to advert. These arrangements are for the governing body to decide. School Council(s) should be consulted

▪ New head will be appointed 6 months before the new school opens

Teachers, subjects and standards

▪ Worried about change of staff – most will continue

▪ Some staff will come into the new school by necessity (i.e. not necessarily best for the job – how can this be managed? (performance management strong from the outset)

▪ Would it be better to have two Heads of Department for different year groups? A head was ‘the head’ by definition but they could be assisted by one or more deputy

▪ Will school timetables change? Or organisation of subjects

▪ Both schools are in special measures. Teachers are working to improve grades – will they be fighting for jobs now? Could this affect standards?

▪ Would there be more subjects available at GCSE and A Level?

▪ Support for staff now and through the move

▪ Important to make sure subjects improve – both schools have strong departments, so across the two schools a good range of strong departments

▪ Will the new school be in special measures? No category when it starts. Estyn will make a visit within a year

▪ Year 9 will be choosing GCSEs when this happens. How will this be affected?

The way the school would run / school facilities

▪ Would having one school bring about the chance of having more equipment e.g. for sports etc. There would be a single budget for the new school so there may be more resources.

▪ Will the pupils have to travel between the two sites?

▪ Don’t have whole school assemblies at the moment, so no real difference here

▪ New governing body ? Merger of two existing. This can only start once decision has been made, usually during statutory notice period. Representatives from both schools.

▪ Would there be fingerprint payment? (cashless catering)

▪ Will the current buildings be improved?

Uniforms

▪ What would the new uniform be like? Changes would need to be made gradually

Travelling to and from school

▪ Moves due to bullying out of Haverfordwest. LA may pay for transport if proven necessary.

▪ What will happen with the school buses?

Being together?

▪ How do you make it feel like one school community?

▪ Challenge of bringing two school communities together

▪ Concern about sibling from Johnston

▪ Pupils at Johnston would still like to go to new Haverfordwest school – they have parental choice

Looking ahead

▪ How will we apply for funding for 11 – 19 if as said before it is not ‘transformational’ enough? WG criteria has changed – the main criteria now for deciding whether a project should be funded or not was condition of buildings (no longer that it was ‘transformational’). However, proposed changes still need to demonstrate that they bring about improvements in standards.

▪ We are happy that we’ve been listened to

▪ We would like to work together towards achieving success with new school

▪ Long term, this could make a difference to the town

▪ We would like a new build 11 – 19 school in the future

▪ Will there have to be another consultation about a future new school build? Planning permission only

▪ Are there any new plans for Milford Haven School?

▪ Good if head could be advertised nationally – but will need to be aware of Pembrokeshire issues, would be good to keep current acting heads involved with the development of new school

Teachers, classes, subjects and standards

▪ Good that teachers will be appointed from existing staff

▪ Staff moving between sites? Depends on planning by new head

▪ Class sizes – limit to a reasonable number. TM pupils may see bigger class size (as school is currently carrying surplus places)

▪ Will have more options, subject choices, better sets – pupils in correct classes – will help pupils get better grades

The way the school would run / school facilities

▪ How will the new school be organised across the two sites? Will be decided by the new governing body. Staffing will also be decided by governing body. Less senior staff (e.g. heads of departments). New head will be appointed in January 2018

▪ Like the idea of split sites, better for pupils – some agreed, some didn’t

▪ New building will be better for the future improvement of education

▪ We don’t have whole school assemblies currently – year group assemblies better as more relevant

Travelling to and from school

▪ Catchment changes – better for Neyland because of shorter distance. Milford Haven School would become more of a ‘comprehensive school’ with pupils from different areas

Being Together?

▪ We will need a build up to the new school to help pupils create one community

Looking ahead

▪ North Pembs Federation? Effectively ended with Ysgol Bro Gwaun and Ysgol Dewi Sant becoming 16 and under. Two centres in Havefordwest – college and school. Milford Haven School would also be part of arrangements in Haverfordwest but not with Pembroke (due to travel). Federation would become a ‘Pembrokeshire Federation’

▪ Happy there will be a sixth form in school

▪ Temporary School Council working with interim governing body would be important

APPENDIX B

Review of Secondary Education Provision in Haverfordwest Correspondence received as part of statutory consultation

Ref Comments

2 I am wholly supportive of any scheme which includes a sixth This is a decision I support. form provision. I feel that bringing the schools together in the proposed way is the first step to building one school for the young people of Haverfordwest. If the original proposals had been 11-19 provision, we would have supported the Local Authority and the 21st Century funding would not have been lost. No one in Haverfordwest wanted Pembrokeshire College to run all post 16 education provision and this is the result of PCC's determination to push it through. This is called 'making the best of a bad job'.

3 Post 16 should be part of the College/Ysgol Dewi Sant and Ysgol Bro Gwaun arrangement with new facilities

Ref Comments

6 From reading your consultation document it is clear that There is no information within this Provide more detail to allow individuals to be both schools have reached a position where significant consultation as to why this is able to full assess the proposals being made. action is required. I also approve of providing a 16-19 happening or the benefits it brings. Only through an effective analysis of the teaching provision within schools that is different to that What matters is that the highest situation can people come to a considered provided by Pembrokeshire College. It is positive for pupils possible number of pupils receive the view on what is a very complex situation. It is to have a choice over the type of provision that best suits highest possible standard of clear that changes are required, however them as there is a considerable psychological difference to education. It is stated that Tasker change should not be started until there is a College style learning and a school provided structure. Also Milward and Sir Thomas Picton clear understanding of where it will take us providing pupils with a means of continuing tuition with schools are both in Special Measures, and the implications that it will have. If more teachers that they consider to be inspirational can gives however there is no information given time is required to fully explore the option greater chance of pupils being catapulted to success. I around the standard of Milford Haven then that time should be taken. Moving half know that my school achievements were highly influenced Comprehensive, nor the reasons why cocked achieves nothing. by the teachers that inspired me. Chopping and changing to this will be beneficial in any way. I unknown teachers for higher level studies are likely to be cannot agree when I feel as in the disruptive or unsettling.This model may offer excellent dark now as I was when I started the teachers more opportunity to achieve excellent results for consultation document. pupils. However I do not feel that the consultation document provides enough information to allow me to fully understand or agree with what is being proposed. It is stated that merging schools is not possible due to the differing ownerships of the different schools. I can only assume that 38

Ref Comments

7 I believe that it is in the best interest of children to be educated in smaller rather than larger schools. Education needs to prioritise wellbeing and positive social interactions if we want children to become productive members of a democratic society.

9 I think that STP is being lumbered with Taskers problems. I I think we should build new schools on each am in Year 6 now and I am worried that just as I am settled site. into my new school I will have to move again and meet more new people. I am also worried that I will have to have some lessons in Taskers. I agree as well because I might never see some of my friends again.

10 Do not see benefit of having one larger school. Why not Please see response to first question. can we concentrate on the quality of education delivered and not just concentrate on getting the existing stability and job security of the teaching staff. We have had schools up to scratch to pull our son out of Taskers and have been very disappointed with the quality of education provided. Stop messing around please with our children's futures. The uncertainty is so disruptive and unsettling.

12 I am of the opinion as a former teacher that a 'super school' Keep both schools and make more of an will not be a good environment for both my children to learn investment into education. I believe the in. The two schools it will replace are large, and the sense council has wasted an opportunity to receive of school community will be lost in a huge school. 40

Ref Comments

14 The proposal is throwing the baby out with the bath water. This seems logical in terms of access. Focus on improving the existing 2 schools, There are two established schools each needing improving possibly each one having different foci (eg structurally and educationally. Efforts should be focussed on academic v technical, in management this. (voluntary controlled) or other disinctions)

15 It seems sensible to use both sites for the new school. For This decision would not affect my example a Lower and Upper School. It would be sensible if family but I know from comments from an Upper School were on the current Tasker site so that parents of children from Neyland that there could be easy access to Pembrokeshire College as they prefer their children going to well. school in Haverfordwest.

16 Suggest access is onto bypass for the buses, and existing Agree with proposal. My alternatives would routes for local walking routes. Selling the new land be with building useage: Split site could purchased for the Welsh school would fund the access, and work but harder to have a strong identity as the new Welsh School could be at TM site if Trustees have one school. PCC budget cuts mean having to agreed to a land swop onto STP site. An alternative and use existing buildings, and with both deemed slightly more innovative location near to the new land would a C - I suggest exploring the use of the PCC be in the grounds of Scolton Manor which is PCC land I buildings on Cherry Grove. The uses of these understand. Shared use of STP sports land should be could easily be moved back into town centre offered. (thus helping improve numbers of people in town, local businesses etc) such as The Old Library and adult learning buildings. Yes they are not new, but we all have to put up and shut up with the huge cuts. I would definitely recommend including the Archive / records 41

Ref Comments

17 Until funding is secured, it appears that the pupils will Secure funding for a single site Welsh continue to be taught across 2 deteriorating sites. How this Medium and English Medium Secondary will achieve the aim of improving educational outcomes is School, enabling common facilities to be be not explained. shared (Sports Hall, Dining Room, Main Hall etc) and so reducing the costs to both. The new School at Bro Teifi in Llandysul is a good example of what can be achieved.

18 My oldest son attended Tasker Milward and I intended my Catchment change would cause huge Johnston has always fallen into the youngest to attend there also, I work in Haverfordwest but inconvenience in relation to school catchment area for Haverfordwest and in our live in Johnston and to have my son attend school in milford attendance and work address we are johnston Haverfordwest not haven would cause huge inconvenience to us and cause Milford Haven and therefor should remain as 43

Ref Comments

19 My husband works in Haverfordwest so is close by to My family live in Haverfordwest and I live in Johnston and as it states in my secondary schools if any problems etc when my children my husband works in Haverfordwest address it comes under Haverfordwest so are in secondary school and my family are in Haverfordwest so they would be close to taskers to there for should remain in the catchment area so if they needed to go to the school for any reason to pick pick up if poorly or go there for any for Haverfordwest. up if poorly etc/"or my husband couldn't get there then they reason needed, I have no transport could. I have no transport so there is no way I could get to and I could not get to milford haven if milford haven if my child was ill etc which leaves me in a needed to. I moved to Johnston difficult situation. This isn't fair on many people that are in knowing my children will go to taskers the same situation as me. school in Haverfordwest.

22 HAVERFORDWEST DESPERATELY REQUIRES A NEW SCHOOL BUT NOT SPREAD OVER 2 SITES! THIS WOULD BE A LOGISTICAL NIGHTMARE! BUILD ON THE STP SITE AND MOTHBALL OR TRANSFORM TM SITE INTO A RECREATIONAL GREEN OPEN SPACE UNTIL A FUTURE NEED IS IDENTIFIED . I.E EXTENDING FUTURE BUSINESS NEEDS/ HOUSING/ EXTENSION OF GLAN CLEDDAU/ VELODROME/ ETC ETC

23 Happy with the ideas

Ref Comments

25 Although I agree with forming one 11 - 19 school in Haverfordwest. I am very concerned with it being across two sites. I am only supportive of this option with the final outcome being an 11 - 19 school on one site in a building that is fit for purpose and to the same level as the new Welsh school that has been agreed. I don't believe English speaking children in Haverfordwest should be in any way disadvantaged compared with Welsh speaking children in their Education provision.

27 Need to sort out Haverfordwest secondary schools to both become quality education providers

Ref Comments

29 this has been too long coming, please get this one right, it is this needs to happen to make the none but its very important that the intention so important that all involved can move on and begin secondary school in the town viable is to secure funding for a new building improving standards and saving money capacity wise

30 Neither school is outstanding I think a fresh start would be good, with a new name etc

32 This school should not be treated differently to other The hub & spoke model for A levels should secondaries - a post code lottery on the availability of A be applied universally across the County or Levels in a school is not acceptable not at all. Children in more rural areas should not be penalised in their A level education & sent to the collage. There is no evidence to suggest the collage will benifit these children - it will be too late once a generation of children have suffered. More evidence is needed on this approach.

33 On the proviso that if a new build is to take place it is Keep Johnston in feeder catchment Outline early on i.e at consultation stage just expidited with urgency - unlike this farce being on it's fourth for Haverfordwest, but use comon how you intend to 'carve' up education on consultation. Do what you mean to do and do it quickly! sense, and put Neyland in the both sites so we know how it is going to work. Do you intend lower school on one site and 46

Ref Comments

34 Open one 11 - 19 school in Haverfordwest. Key stage 3 students based at Tasker Milward old site, Key Stage 4 and 5 students at Sir Thomas Picton old site. The two bases would have similar timetable structures, but there would be very little or no interchange of staff between the two schools. Some money would have to be spent to upgrade the two sites, but the total would be considerably less than building a new school. This could be achieved by the target date of September 2018.

36 This option has been the obvious preferred view by many from the commencement of consultation. I have 4 grandchildren directly affected who need the chance for sixth form education in English in Haverfordwest.

Ref Comments

38 Suggest joint development adjacent to Welsh medium Not without significant investment in Suggest joint development of English school site at Withybush sharing sporting facilities. Would the infrastructure of Milford Haven medium school adjacent to Welsh medium encourage Welsh in broader population as children mix at School (which seems to be left off the school site at Withybush sharing facilities. play and lunch. Could maximise investment value by list of schools suitable for 21st Would encourage Welsh in broader providing high quality shared facilities. Would discourage Century funding). Milford should also population as children could mix at play and 'them and us' two track educational system. Could get a new 11-19 school with the lunch. Could maximise investment value by encourage more students to continue into further education providing higher quality or broader shared 48

Ref Comments

39 Only as long as this doesn't become a drawn out process Leave both schools as they are with 6th form and a 'split' site becomes the norm. Plans must be provision until a new school is built otherwise submitted for a new school urgently otherwise we would be you will cause major upheaval for students. stuck with split site education. You must also make sure that This way it concentrates and strengthens the the majority of academic subjects for 'A' level is retains and Council's and Education Depts. resolve to taught in school. Vocational courses can be fed to the stop time wasting and get on with providing a college, for those who want them. much needed new school. If you had done this 2 years ago we would be almost there by now! 49

Ref Comments

41 A school with sixth form should be established on one site

43 I agree with the proposal on the proviso that there will be I am concerned that all major decisions one building eventually regarding the schools day to day functioning will be decided by the governing body. Who are volunteers and not experts in education matters, with respect

46 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - (comments redacted for the purposes of this respondent does not want their comments to be made document - respondent does not want their publically available) comments to be made publically available)

47 I believe there should be no alternatives to the proposed 11 to 19 English medium school.

48 it is very important to the children that a brand new school is I understand this makes sense on A new purpose built 11-19 school for the provided as soon as is possible. The future of education will paper but the historical links of county town of Pembrokeshire is needed. need a purpose built stste of the art school. schools and families to certain Higher standards of behaviour, dress and secondary schools will be hard to achievement could be addressed and break. And as so many families apply retaining and hiring excellent teachers would to attend stp from out of catchment - be easier with the right facilities. Our children wont this just happen in even bigger deserve the best start in life and the Council numbers? need to put the children first and point scoring and their own agenda second. All parties involved must now look to the future. 50

Ref Comments

53 I strongly believe this will only work if the new school is in one building, on one grounds.

54 As long as 6th form is integral to the school

58 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - respondent does not want their comments to be made publically available)

Ref Comments

61 Would like 11-19 years provision

62 * Split school for 3-4 years is not ideal, but understandably necessary to achieve a single school later; * One school better than split schools; * Important that people midway through GCSEs/A Levels have easy transition

63 It will be really good for the social side of merging both school because of the size and population within the new school.

64 It is very good that the sixth form will now be a part of this new school. Wider options need to be kept at GCSE and A Level in the new school and for the subject to NOT go to the college.

65 I like that there is a sixth form in the school. I think that my only issue is with the staffing - how it'll be organised on split sites & how they'll be able to efficiently run classes. I want pupils to have a voice with the running and structure of the new school.

Ref Comments

71 However one school site must be the future plan This will undoubtedly split siblings

72 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - respondent does not want their comments to be made publically available)

74 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - (comments redacted for the purposes of this respondent does not want their comments to be made document - respondent does not want their publically available) comments to be made publically available)

75 Following last nights consultation meeting it is apparent the The reorganisation of catchment school must initially be on split sites using both schools. It is areas is necessary to benefit all imperative for the future success of the school that a single schools and students but it must only site is identified as soon as possible. A split site is not happen if there are adequate facilities acceptable for more time than is absolutely necessary. at MHSS to take the additional students.

Ref Comments

79 Use Pembrokeshire College for 6th Form provision

80 Both school look very run down and a new school needs to be built. I went to Thomas Picton the other day and they were teaching science in a damp shed. Its smelt awful in there and didnt seem a safe environment for education. Something needs to be done about the secondary education in Haverfordwest. Fishguard High school is looking brilliant and we need to match that standard.

81 It is clear that attempting to maintain two secondary schools This seems logical and parental in Haverfordwest is unsustainable, given the drop in pupil choice means that pupils from numbers. I applaud the authority's efforts to bring the two Johnston and Neyland can still apply schools together, rather than have one 'take over' the other. to come into Haverfordwest if family or other circumstances make this more practical for them and their child (children).

84 As the parent of two children who attend Neyland school I would be 54

Ref Comments

85 Agree with the proposal for a single EM school in Not before time. Haverfordwest. Delighted to see that it is proposed to retain the sixth form in the new school. Somewhat concerned about the possibility of long term split site arrangements.

86 I want to see a new modern comprehensive school built in Simple...close STP and move pupils to hwest & for the council to apply for band b funding from the Tasker. Build a new school on the current welsh government 21st century schools funding STP site as it already has purpose built programme. sports areas thus saving money in that respect. I want to see a new modern comprehensive school built in hwest & for the council to apply for band b funding from the welsh government 21st century schools funding programme.

87 I want to see a new modern comprehensive school built in I want to see a new modern comprehensive hwest & for the council to apply for band b funding from the school built in hwest & for the council to apply welsh government 21st century schools funding for band b funding from the welsh programme. government 21st century schools funding programme. School to be built on current 55

Ref Comments

88 I think it would be a massive shame to do away with Sir It would be much more appropriate for Give the choice to people residing in Thomas Picton school my son to go to Haverfordwest to Johnston and surrounding areas of which secondary school. As Johnston is school their children should attend. It is central to both Milford and almost directly between Milford and Haverfordwest I believe we should Haverfordwest but for some people going to have a choice if you want to lessen work etc they would have to go in the demand on schools in the area complete opposite direction to drop off collect their children. The choice should ensure that some children go either way and therefore would lessen the demands of the schools.

89 Keep catchment areas the same

90 I agree both schools should be closed and one super school Johnston is in the Haverfordwest to be built. postcode so therefore the children in Johnston school should be able to attend Haverfordwest schools. However, neyland is under the Milford haven postcode so the children should attend Milford haven school.

91 I would strongly hope that the new school be on one site. I I agree as will keep numbers down in also would urge the council and the schools to be mindful of H/west the effect of the changes on the children who will attend the 56

Ref Comments

93 One 11-19 English medium school in Haverfordwest makes This makes sense in order to fill spare sense for the future. It is very important that Pembrokeshire places at Milford Haven School. County Council honour their promise to build a new school Pembrokeshire County Council should on one site. Failure to do this will be detrimental to future do all they can to reassure parents standards in the new school. and pupils already attending Haverfordwest schools that they may continue if they want to and that siblings may follow siblings.

95 Shame you had to fight it so hard to start with. These might have to remain flexible in Not alternatives, but some thoughts: - Ideally future to enable provision to respond make all on one campus, preferably STP as to population changes. it's bigger. - Consider Compulsory Purchase of the dwelling opposite Mike's Bikes to widen the entrance to improve access. - Consider drop-off bays in the street to avoid the need to enter. - Make buses wait until drop off is complete - Build higher to get more compact footprint. - Use Resources Centre as part of it. Archives can be housed anywhere, even if they have special climate controls; move them with the archive material. It's more important as a school campus. Undo the fiasco the previous Chief Exec wrought upon 57

Ref Comments

99 Agree with provisio below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. * I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new 58

Ref Comments

100 It is essential as part of this proposal that improvements are The two-site proposal MUST be time limited made to address both the physical and academic learning and the move to a single site be prioritised so environment for young people at 11-19 in Haverfordwest that parents of children in current feeder area. This proposal will assist in that BUT the scheme will schools and starting schools in 2017 KNOW only bring about the required academic improvements when that there will be a quality senior school in this is implemented on a single new school site as the Haverfordwest by the time their children environmental degradation of the current buildings is so require it. Without this in place recruitment of appalling that it is a deterrant for both teaching staff and staff across ALL sectors will be severely pupils resulting in a deficit of ambition and lack of qualified compromised as parents and teaching staff teaching staff. will not entertain living and working in a locality where the physical infrastructure of the schools feel like they were constructed in a third world country, have asbestos risks and are wholly inadequate. This is a serious concern and if the Council fails to address this then there will be a further exodus of educated and more affluent families out of the area and increased home educating as the current schools are disastrous. 59

Ref Comments

103 Build a new school on a new site before you close the two Build a new school on a new site before you existing schools. Any argument that PCC cannot fund the close the two existing schools. Any argument purchase of a suitable site is to be challenged. While the that PCC cannot fund the purchase of a previous three consultations on the future of Haverfordwest suitable site is to be challenged. While the secondary school education was taking place, PCC previous three consultations on the future of managed to afford to buy land. This was to extend the Haverfordwest secondary school education college to accomodate their dogmatic plan to establish sixth was taking place, PCC managed to afford to form education in the college. This deception has been buy land. This was to extend the college to exposed, and was, and still is, against the wishes of the accomodate their dogmatic plan to establish local schoolchildren, their parents, teachers and the people sixth form education in the college. This who fund PCC, the Council Tax Payers. If PCC declare that deception has been exposed, and was, and they will buy land, and then build and commission a new still is, against the wishes of the local schoolchildren, their parents, teachers and 60

Ref Comments

In relation to the proposal to close STP & TM schools In relation to the proposal to In relation to alternatives to the proposal and establish a new 11-19 EM school for Haverfordwest designate Johnston CP and Neyland CP schools as feeder schools to Milford Haven School and extend the catchment area of Milford Haven School to encompass the catchment areas for Johnston & Neyland school before the existing schools are closed, then there the people who fund PCC, the Council Tax would be support for this course of action. Payers. If PCC declare that they will buy land, and then build and commission a new school before the existing schools are closed, then there would be support for this course of action. 104 I fail to see how merging two failing schools will raise This should have happened before An alternative would be that Pembrokeshire education standards. I believe this is a knee jerk reaction now. County Council, Estyn & Welsh Government and the proposal has not been thought through, for example concentrate their efforts to raise the how are teachers and/or pupils expected to travel between standards of education and gets both these the two sites?? I would only agree to this proposal agree on schools out of special measures. All parties the understanding that the merging of these two schools have allowed these schools to become failing actually RAISES the education standards for the pupils of and these parties are responsible for the these schools and that it is a TEMPORARY measure. appalling level of education offered by Sir P.C.C. must secure 21st century schools funding from Thomas Picton & Tasker Milward. I fail to Welsg Government and provide a 21st century school for see how merging two failing schools can the children of Haverfordwest and the surrounding areas raise education standards. I believe the and stops failing these children. schools should be kept as they are, that WG & P.C.C. invest much needed funds into the schools, raise the standards of education, obtain 21st century school funding & build a new school Asaph. Keep the two schools, raise standards, obtain funding & then build a new school.

105 Agree but with the proviso below: The Governors and staff Portfield staff and governors wish to register of Portfield school wish to register the following views. • We their proposal that provision for pupils with are disappointed that there is no mention in the consultation severe learning difficulties in the form of 61

Ref Comments

106 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the retained and developed in the new Secondary provision for existing Portfield special school building to Haverfordwest • The Portfield school satellites for KS3 and ensure access to specialist facilities such as KS4 pupils are retained within the new school. • Portfield Physiotherapy, speech therapy, rebound and special school secondary building would be located in close hydrotherapy. proximity to the new Secondary comprehensive school and satellite provision to enable continued partnership.

107 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new 62

Ref Comments

108 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the retained and developed in the new Secondary provision for existing Portfield special school building to Haverfordwest • The Portfield school satellites for KS3 and ensure access to specialist facilities such as KS4 pupils are retained within the new school. • Portfield Physiotherapy, speech therapy, rebound and special school secondary building would be located in close hydrotherapy. proximity to the new Secondary comprehensive school and satellite provision to enable continued partnership.

109 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the 63

Ref Comments

110 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the retained and developed in the new Secondary provision for existing Portfield special school building to Haverfordwest • The Portfield school satellites for KS3 and ensure access to specialist facilities such as KS4 pupils are retained within the new school. • Portfield Physiotherapy, speech therapy, rebound and special school secondary building would be located in close hydrotherapy. proximity to the new Secondary comprehensive school and satellite provision to enable continued partnership.

111 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the retained and developed in the new Secondary provision for existing Portfield special school building to Haverfordwest • The Portfield school satellites for KS3 and ensure access to specialist facilities such as 64

Ref Comments

112 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - (comments redacted for the purposes of this respondent does not want their comments to be made document - respondent does not want their publically available) comments to be made publically available)

113 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the retained and developed in the new Secondary provision for existing Portfield special school building to Haverfordwest • The Portfield school satellites for KS3 and ensure access to specialist facilities such as KS4 pupils are retained within the new school. • Portfield Physiotherapy, speech therapy, rebound and special school secondary building would be located in close hydrotherapy. proximity to the new Secondary comprehensive school and satellite provision to enable continued partnership.

114 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The 65

Ref Comments

115 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the retained and developed in the new Secondary provision for existing Portfield special school building to Haverfordwest • The Portfield school satellites for KS3 and ensure access to specialist facilities such as KS4 pupils are retained within the new school. • Portfield Physiotherapy, speech therapy, rebound and special school secondary building would be located in close hydrotherapy. proximity to the new Secondary comprehensive school and satellite provision to enable continued partnership.

116 Agree but with the proviso below: I would like to register the I would like to register the proposal that following views. • I am disappointed that there is no mention provision for pupils with severe learning in the consultation document of the Portfield satellite difficulties in the form of Satellite classes and provision currently at Tasker Milward Comprehensive facilities be provided within the new school. • I would like to ensure that the “Sector leading Haverfordwest 11-19 secondary school. The partnerships” that Estyn identified in March 2013 are proximity of this should be close to the retained and developed in the new Secondary provision for existing Portfield special school building to 66

Ref Comments

117 * Having a 6th form is a good thing because if you are * Children should get a choice of settled in school you may not want to go to college. * Haverfordwest or Milford schools. * College can be a big change. * Having a 6th form means They may have older siblings in the that children from St David's can go to it because they don't Haverfordwest school and so siblings have one. won't be together. * If children now are expecting to go to Haverfordwest they may be disappointed.

118 Very rarely do mergers work, I believe this will become to Although this will cut down on the I believe that a large secondary school could big to manage and children will suffer as a result. ridiculous amount of traffic on be built on the proposed Thomas Parry way Dredgemans Hill during school site, this has good access and could allow start/finish times I believe that parents adequate parking for parents during and children alike should be allowed pickup/drop off times, This school could be some choice on where they attend built whilst the other two schools are still school, especially if certain facilities running and when finished the Tasker Milford are not available in one area. School could be used as an extension Pembrokeshire Colledge and Sivth Formers, it could also be utilised as a sports academy due to its Sports facilities on site.

Ref Comments

120 This response is from the Governing Body of Neyland The Local Authority has provided a Why does the catchment area have to Community School. As a governing body we think it’s great deal of comparative information change before the new school is established essential to provide twenty first century education to all our for the existing schools in in 2018? We feel that catchment changes are pupils which also includes sixth form provision. The site of Haverfordwest, but there is not the being rushed through without the level of the new school is important as it needs to have capacity to same level of detail for the detail provided for schools in the provide a high standard of education from the very performance of Milford Secondary. Haverfordwest area. We would like parity of beginning. If not monitored closely, construction work could For example what is the capacity and information with Governing Bodies who will be very disruptive to existing pupils with lost or reduced surplus capacity of the school? How be sending their pupils to schools in resources and activities. We also note that there is some will it cope with extra pupils in areas Haverfordwest. uncertainty over obtaining funding for a new build. Is there such as staffing? Will they have a” Plan B”? enough time to prepare for these proposed changes? What is going to happen to the sixth form at Milford? There are many unknown quantities which is why we couldn’t give a definite response to the question. We are disappointed that there is no comparative data on Milford Secondary School as in our last consultation response (March 16) we did ask for this level of detail to be included.

Ref Comments

122 Sir Thomas Picton has long been a sought after school with Retain Sir Thomas Picton school and it's a good reputation. It's set in scenic grounds with mature buildings including the special needs unit built trees and the school itself is an attractive and historic red in 2002 and the new science wing and brick building which has had a vast amount of money spent laboratories built in 2006-2009 at a cost of on it and improvements made to it in recent years including £1.4 million. Alternative proposal 1: Close tinted double glazing to all but two wings (G & H) with a new Tasker Milward School retain Sir Thomas special needs unit added (circa 2002) at a cost of £273,000, Picton and its buildings and add an extension a significant extension that includes six new class rooms or extensions to the current building either on including two large science laboratories added to D wing at the large grass area between F wing and the a cost of £1.4 million (circa 2006-2009), the hall has Pembrokeshire Archives building or by received a lottery grant to enable it's refurbishment, new extending B, C, E or F wing in the same way toilets have been recently fitted and alterations to the that D wing was recently extended to access road including a footpath being added and a bus incorporate the new science wing. Note A, B, parking area created in 2012. The sports facilities are first C, D, E and F wings and the main corridor class and the building is mostly ground floor (apart from G & are the original school building. G and H wing H wing and a small area in A wing) with light and airy (block buildings) were added in the 1970's classrooms with mature gardens separating the wings and have had had less money spent on them creating a peaceful and tranquil classroom atmosphere in a which would in part be adding to the school lovely building with modern facilities recently added and building condition being rated as C. It could improved on. Sir Thomas Picton and its building should be be an idea to demolish H wing (the largest of retained with an extension added (plenty of room to do so) the two blocks) and replace that with a new to incorporate Tasker Milwards pupils and staff. built extension as it faces the school yard there would be plenty of room for a larger building to be erected and it would save the council (tax payers) millions of pounds and 69

Ref Comments

123 Haverfordwest does not need two schools being badly run, Parents in this day and age should be Knock down both schools and rebuild with it is unfair on our children. The two schools are a shambles. able to decide where their children are one school educated, their taxes pay for it! They 70

Ref Comments

126 It appears both schools are doing badly/ under special I think people should have a choice measures so to amalgamate as long as this doesnt make classroom sizes to big seems a more strategic plan

128 I strongly disagree to Johnston being Discontinue Sir Thomas Picton and Taskers. in the Milford Haven catchment. I live Use both campuses, one for english school in the outskirts of Johnston and my and one for welsh school. Then work with the children are able to walk to school if College to offer an effective use of A-Level needs be. It is ridiculas if they have to subjects. go further in distance to attend school.

129 This proposal is just a continuation of what we had. A Go back to the original idea of an 11-16 golden opportunity for a new model has been lost. Both school that places equal weight on all its schools are failing, especially in the progress and outcomes learners, whatever their challenges of the less academically able. In my experience as a parent they prioritise the most able and the A-Level students

132 Build the new school, with the foresight and provision for and then will we not need a new future generations and A Level capacity, but just get the school in Milford Haven? Is there not school built. How many more children have to be deprived a super school for the juniors, a bigger of standard, safe facilities ??? The best proposal for an A school just been built in Johnston?? 71

Ref Comments

133 we do not need an 11 - 19 school in Haverfordwest we need an 11 - 16 school to give this age range and the future pupils an opportunity to achieve. too much focus on a levels when they are a minority

134 Is there a need for 11-19 school, when the local College can Geographically this make sense for New school in Haverfordwest 11-16 Change deliver post 16 education, and has an excellent reputation. I pupils in these areas to attend Milford catchment area for Milford Haven school to agree a 11-16 new school in needed in Haverfordwest. This Haven School, again is there a need include Johnston and Neyland with a 11-16 new school could then focus on delivering high quality for a sixth form, when Pembrokeshire school All post 16 education to be delivered education at key stage 3 and 4, because the school Estyn College can deliver post 16 education at Pembrokeshire College inspection reports have been very poor, and standards need with a wide ranges of choices from to be improved. Also the schools funding can then be vocational courses, A levels and prioritised for key stage 3 and 4 and not used to prop up apprenticeships The school could post 16 education at the school, this should also help then be used more effectively for the support improving standards. age groups 11-16, instead of subsidising the sixth form.

135 Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools are failing The only reason for having Johnston Replace the failing Tasker Milward and Sir badly and are the worst secondary schools in and Neyland as catchment areas for Thomas Picton schools with a new 11-16 Pembrokeshrie. They should be closed and replaced with a Haverfordwest are to keep the failing school NOT a new 11-19 school. new 11-16 school NOT a new 11-19 school. Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools open.

137 Totally agree with 11-19 English medium school for Haverfordwest. In preparation for the "new school" it would 72

Ref Comments

147 Having a single English medium school in Haverfordwest It makes economic and educational will reduce the budgetary pressures of operating two sense for all schools to operate as schools and avoids duplication of leadership, admin and close to capacity as possible! support roles thus freeing a greater proportion of the funds for teaching - both personnel and resources. A larger school will also provide the pupil numbers to offer a wider curriculum at both GCSE and A level. The school should be operated solely on the Sir Thomas Picton site as soon as possible. The use to which the Tasker Milward site is initially put should be decided by the new head teacher and governing body.

153 The Haverfordwest schools are not capable of educating STP and Taskers to become one 11-16 11-16 let alone 11-19 school on STP site. 6th form to College. Maintain sports dome and 3g pitch on taskers site to be used by all schools/College in the area.

154 This proposal will not ensure that young people make the All young people should be enabled to make right choices for them as individuals. decisions based on subject choice and type of course. This would happen if all 16-19 73

Ref Comments

155 What's the difference? To quote Shakespeare, "A rose by Does it matter? It is evident that the decline in successful any other name would smell as sweet" (or as bad!!). Stop GCSE results reflects a decline in the quality wasting money, boys and girls, spend it on better quality of people going into the teaching profession. education. Putting up a few new buildings and calling them Up the standard of the teachers and the something else won't improve the declining quality of results will speak for themselves. To add to secondary education, will it? this, the sooner resources are spent in the classroom rather than on the numbers of people who act in an administration role, the better. Administration is a stealthy way of conceal unemployment and serves no real benefit in the running of any business. All roles within administration generate unnecessary paperwork for teachers which completely detracts from the real reason that education exists. My comments are in no way aimed at any individual but rather at the world we are turning into. Wake up and smell the coffee people!

157 A new combined school (with catchment changes) will be Catchment area changes are needed. large enough to support a 6th form teaching core subjects It will make Milford haven school more 74

Ref Comments

160 Why are the pupils of North Pembrokeshire (Fishguard & St 11-16 merged school in Haverfordwest, Davids') being treated differently? How is simply merging thereby treating ALL pupils equally. these two 'failing' schools going to improve standards? And, how it is transformational? Won't this new proposal simply make the new A Level Centre defunct? Or, will it simply be an A-Level Centre for YDS and YBG but based in Haverfordwest.... again unfairly treating North Pembs pupils by making them travel for their A-Level studies?

162 I agree but duel sites should not mean children have to move during the day. It is imperative that GCSE and A level students are not disrupted and have consistency with teachers on the transition (the teachers are not late etc.) Different years should be placed permanently at one site.

163 I agree but only if students and teachers do not have to This does not affect me, but it will move between the current 2 sites throughout the day while affect my friends' siblings . the school is being built.

164 I agree but student's learning should not be disrupted at all. I am not affected, but people I know will be.

165 Students and teachers cannot be disrupted due to this. It does not affect me or anyone I know. it is a bad idea though as these 75

Ref Comments

166 I am pleased that there are plans for a 11 to 19 school in Haverfordwest, but I think the plans should wait until the new school can be built on one site. I am completely against a split site school due to the many disadvantages that this causes along with extra associated costs. I understand that a plan has to put in place before Band B money is allocated, but surely the Welsh Assembly would accept a plan which has the support of teachers, pupils and parents without causing the upheaval of moving pupils for an interim period onto split sites.

169 I believe that the two schools should remain open and As previously mentioned develop both concentrate their efforts on GCSEs with a sixth form centre secondary schools as centres of excellence being established in Pembrokeshire where all current 11-19 for GCSE by offering KS3 and 4 curriculum schools are feeders to this centre. As a parent with a pupil delivered by high quality full time teachers, in one of these secondary schools I have found that the who can ensure that pupils have the best majority of pupils entering secondary education at the age possible chance of achieving high quality of 11 are subject to timetables where most subjects are outcomes to progress to higher learning or taught by supply teachers. This situation means that there is into employment. no continuity to teaching at a crucial stage and in one subject there has been no teaching at all this year! I want my pupil to have a sound foundation of education which will 76

Ref Comments

170 They are failing schools so why merge them? I believe the only way that secondary education will improve in Haverfordwest is to build a new 11-16 school for all students to concentrate on theur GCSE's. The schools can specialise and put their efforts into producing well educated learners. They are failing at this currently. Pembrokeshire College which is not failing and never has failed an Estyn Inspection, should deliver post compulsory education as they are obviously better at it.

171 I agree that two new schools are required, but they should Sixth form provision should be at Pembs be 11 to 16 with sixth form provision at Pembs College to College who have proven themselves better save on duplication of provision and resources. educators, more efficient with resources and to have higher quality pastoral care.

172 Haverfordwest School should be 11-16 with A levels at the College 77

Ref Comments

174 I think that the 11-16 part is a good idea but that the sixth Good, fill up Milford, attract more All sixth form to the college - they are building form will be too small to offer good subject choices (as is funding for them and they can go back a new centre for the A levels, why not use it?! now) and that those small classes will be extracting funding up to capacity. from the lower classes thus disadvantaging them in the long run. I would think the college and school joining forces would make more sense.

179 Create a single 11-16 school from the two haverfordwest schools. Based on the poor performance of the two local schools this makes good sense. Schools that are 11-16 perform generally better at GCSEs than 11- 19 schools. They also opperate better financially. The College in Haverfordwest has just had excellent results in 15/16 at A level. it is well resourced and in strong financial health. They will be running an extended A level offwer in 17/18 why wouldnt you want to use this excellent resource?

181 Johnston should still come under a Haverfordwest catchment rather than Milford

Ref Comments

182 I think that both new schools would be a real asset to the I think that Pembrokeshire College should be county. However, I also think that it should only be 11 - 16 the preferred 6 form centre for the area. As as the present 6th forms at both present schools have failed well as having excellent results for the the students badly and I can see no reason why this present 6 form, they also have better choices wouldn't persist in the future for students that do not suit 6 forms. I have found, as many of my friends have found too, that the choices being offered by the present two schools is woefully inadequate, just like their ESTYN results. There was little to no encouragement by the school teachers or careers advisors from the schools for anything other than academic subjects that the schools provided. Additionally, if the student was struggling on the 6 form courses, there was no provision for them to transfer to a subject that better suited their needs or abilities; which isn’t the case with a College. The Government have said that apprenticeships are the way forward, which are also not offered by the schools. Students that show the ability to achieve and also an interest in careers that are better met by apprenticeships !would have a better chance of moving into employment, which is of course the whole reason for gaining a 79

Ref Comments

183 A new 11-19 school is an excellent idea, and one that we This makes logical sense to address No alternatives-just reinstating the have been campaigning for for a very long time. It is falling pupil number in Milford Haven. importance of seeking to build a single school imperative however that the current proposals for a split site The school, whilst without any new in the town following this consultation. should be a temporary measure whilst the council applies buildings has been improving for Band B funding for a new, single site school. Despite standards over the past few years, this, I am very pleased with this particular consultation-thank and hopefully their upcoming Estyn you for listening to our voice. inspection will reflect their improved standards.

184 Both schools are in a poor state and there needs to be a Establish a new 11-16 school in new school built with better facilities but it would be far more Haverfordwest as in previous proposals and efficient to have all the post 16 provision on the designate Pembrokeshire College as 6th Pembrokeshire College site. form and Vocational training centre for all the secondary schools in Haverfordwest, St. Davids and Fishguard.

186 The council should use every available option to start this No alternatives, just the work towards our school on one site by using cherry grove, archives and emails site from the start 80

Ref Comments

187 Agree in principle but would have strong reservations on To establish a new 11-19 for Haverfordwest operating the school over the two existing sites. The current on a new purpose built complex on a single buildings are not fit for purpose and being located at site (preferably on an edge of town site to opposite ends of the Town would be a logistical nightmare minimise traffic impact) for both teaching staff and pupils.

188 Johnston and Neyland have always been part of the Haverfordwest feeder schools and always should be. I believe there should be a choice on which feeder the pupils go to not chosen for them. Before this decision is made the pupils and parents of Johnston and Neyland should be consulted on what they want for their children. 190 Currently, these two schools are not providing the best 11-16 school provision with one individual education for their students following Estyn Inspections. An sixth form centre based where it makes best extremely large joint school will bring many challenges, if it economic sense which can deliver to all were 11-16 at least they could focus just on that cohort to ages, so that Pembrokeshire students get a raise standards. first rate education.

191 I strongly disagree with the proposal to close Tasker I always thought pupils from Johnston Milward and Sir Thomas Picton schools on 31st August and Neyland areas mostly went to 2018 and then open a new secondary 11-19 school on 1st Milford. 81

Ref Comments

192 The inclusion of a sixth form is essential to the new plans in I am concerned that younger siblings my opinion and I am very pleased to see that the voices of will not be able to attend the same the people of the area have been listened to. My main school as the older sibilings i.e. one in concern is the location of the new school and the potential Haverfordwest and feel that this implications for the 'travelling' of both pupils and staff during should be allowed. the school day. I also think that a governing body and headteacher should be appointed as soon as possible to ensure that transition for both pupils and staff is as seamless as possible.

Ref Comments

194 I would urge you to seek a new location for the 11 - 19 school as soon as possible so that both schools can be joined together and move forward on one site.

195 It is very important that there be one new 11- 19 school building as soon as possible in the future.

196 Although it is agreed that secondary education needs to be improved in the area, this would be best offered on one site! The school should not be spilt up and education should be provided on the one site. Teachers will not benefit from working over two sites, and traffic in the Haverfordwest is not the best the majority of the time. How can you guarantee that teaching time will not be lost for this reason? Our understanding of the Plan B proposal is that the money will be made available if there is a valid plan in place for a new school, is this the case, we have not seen any plans indicating plans for a new english medium secondary school in Haverfordwest?

Ref Comments

198 Still doesn't give 6th form students the choice of subjects or Single 6th form/post 16 centre for suitably sized classes to be able to run all subjects that a Pembrokeshire. single centre for Pembrokeshire would provide. This is again poor allocation of tax payers money and depriving our young adults the choice of subjects they deserve.

200 There needs to be a 11 - 19 school on one site asap as trying to teach and learn between two sites will be a nightmare.

201 I really think that there should be a 11 to 19 school in Haverfordwest but I think the proposed timeline is too rushed. Has the Welsh Government confirmed there will be definitely be money available for Band B Funding ? I would like the new school to be built on one site without having a split site school while waiting for the funding, especially if the funding is not available.

202 * 1900 pupils seem to be too large a school for individual attention. * I was in favour of closin Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward schools, and having a 11-16 school, with post 16 provision being offered on one site, mainly due to efficiency and choice of subjects * My biggest worry is that it is proposed that the new school will open in September 84

Ref Comments

203 Just to say how important it is that there be one 11 - 19 school building as soon as possible so that teachers and children do not have to go back and for across Haverfordwest wasting time that could be used teaching and learning.

205 Access to an eleven to NINETEEN school is vital for the Milford School has under-capacity so prosperity of Pembrokeshire this is a necessary change. However, will students who wish to have the opportunities and resources that the new school will offer be allowed that?

206 I strongly agree to the proposal but feel the school should This doesn't effect me but I can Could cherry grove offices be used in the be on ONE site in order to form a cohesive school. I feel a understand why the parents of those short term in order for the school to be closer school on two sites would cause problems with time tabling , pupils would be concerned. and therefore more cohesive from the start? also any extra curricular activities including all year groups such as orchestras would be extremely difficult due to logistics, especially when rehearsals are at lunch time. I feel 85

Ref Comments

207 I feel this will cause a lot of disruption to pupils and staff. I think that a new school should be built first then close the top schools and bring together

208 Strongly believe the new school should be on a single site. Split sites would mean duplication of certain facilities and a single school would allow ability to obtain more specialist educational equipment. Split sites have the issue of logistics where there are extra curricular activities covering all years such as orchestras would be extremely difficult. Also the setting on a single site will provide greater flexibility on subject to tabling and also class cover as a result of staff absence. I also believe that you cannot ignore the mentoring aspect of the sixth form has on the lower years.

209 I agree to the merge of both schools having a big new Doesn't effect me but understand Agree with everything but new school on one school with a sixth form however having the school on one reasons for changes site is very important site I also find very important to have best use of staff and to make the best of the school community

210 I strongly support the newly proposed school, as I believe I do not have an opinion on this as I The modification of having the 11-19 school giving the pupils of Haverfordwest a choice between 6th am not involved or have ever been on one site would give students in lower form and college will give them the best chance of involved with these schools, I do school the chance to be able to look up to succeeding in an environment that is right for them. I feel however see why the catchment area those students in the sixth form and the that the proposal could be improved by the entire school needs to change. school could then function as a whole. 86

Ref Comments

211 Over the last few years there has been a great decline in I agree to this as long as Milford Considering that the Trustees of the Tasker the number of children wanting to be enrolled at Sir Thomas Haven Comprehensive school can Milward and Picton Charity would consider Picton school, mainly due to a perceived impression that accommodate the increased number favourably an arrangement for an exchange one school was better than the other and of course the fact of children that this move would of land, should the Council consider that new that Tasker Millard was placed into 'Special Measures' in create. provision should be made on the site of Sir July 2014 and stayed there following criticism of the Thomas Picton School. I think that if this is leadership at the time and lack of improvement. Although the only other land option, that plans should there have been great steps taken to alter the pathway of be made to house the combined schools on the school, this has not yet been recognised by Estyn and this site in a brand new building as early as the school remains in this state. I believe the Council has possible. Attaining this in such a way, that the the perfect opportunity to create a state of the art school for education of the current children being the children of Haverfordwest, they have the chance to educated at both schools, not only, doesn't develop a school that ensures every pupil acheives their full suffer, but thrives in an innovative, diverse, all potential academically and develops the skills required to be encompassing manner deserving of these successful in this ever changing world. children.

213 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - respondent does not want their comments to be made publically available)

214 I hope that this proposal occurs as soon as possible.

Ref Comments

NO!!! Johnston school children I think the proposal is BRILLIANT. However, SHOULD NOT have to go to Milford the catchment areas for Johnston and Haven School. They are located Neyland pupils should remain Haverfordwest. closer to Haverfordwest with Although space is an issue, space is also Haverfordwest in their address and a limited in Milford Haven School. These Haverfordwest postcode. Neyland has children should not be put at a disadvantage Milford Haven in their address so this (in terms of losing friends, teachers, the is understand able. This is very unfair norm) due to where they live. Additionally, for both schools and although I children could then be in separate schools to understand it is difficult to cater for their siblings which would be completely this high volume of students, it is wrong. COMPLETELY unfair that these children have been involved in the consultation process and have been going to Haverfordwest secondary schools for a long period of time and are now moved to Milford Haven School away from all their friends just due to where they live. You seriously need to consider the children here because they are the ones who take the greatest effect not you nor I who already have been educated but 88

Ref Comments

217 Delighted that this Consultation appears to have taken into Parents/Guardians would need to be The best option for ALL pupils of ALL ages account the views of pupils and parents alike who wish to consulted on the viability of this at first would be to continue with Tasker Milward and retain sixth form education in a new Secondary School. to take into account siblings who are Sir Thomas Picton as two separate schools This Consultation should pave the way to building a new 11 already attending Haverfordwest until such time as the new 11 - 19 school has - 19 school on ONE site as soon as is practicable. Should Schools. This might have to be been built. In this way there would be no the intention be to create a 'two centre' site in the interim, 'phased' in. disruption to timetabling, staffing, travel or the process would inevitably create issues such as education of our children. Efforts should be timetabling, travelling between the two sites, sharing of made to expedite the building of the new 11 - resources, continuing to use unsuitable buildings and would 19 school with the Council using all its not, in my opinion, raise standards! In fact it would more manpower to this end. This fiasco has gone than likely contribute to lowering standards further! on long enough! With the attendant publicity and crass mishandling of the previous consultations it behoves our Council to 'pull their fingers out' and get the job done!

219 The education department has wasted years not listening to the public about the provision of 11-19 education in Haverfordwest. As a result vital funding opportunities have been missed. Senior council officials should be held to account for this serious mismanagement and incompetence. What is important for the future of the children of Haverfordwest is that he new school is built quickly but

Ref Comments

220 Reading the consultation document I note that the numbers on roll for Hook CP school are predicted to decline to 61 in 2021. This prediction appears to be completely groundless. The education department cannot predict people's intention with regard to starting a family. I am worried that these numbers are being used to manipulate the future of a well performing community school to enable the council to close it on the grounds of unsustainability when nothing could be further from the truth.

221 The idea of putting two schools that are both in special Create a single post 16 unit in conjunction measures together to create one super school does not with the facility being built at Pembrokeshire seem to solve a problem. College. This will allow all post 16 learners to experience the best facilities in Pembrokeshire and give them the vital stepping stone to their future careers

222 11 - 16 is a much better use of public money and improving 16 - 19 in haverfordwest based at the college outcomes for 11 - 16 learners,

224 Establishing a new 11-16 school would be preferable to A new 11-16 school in Haverfordwest to enable schools to focus on improving attainment at GCSE enable school to focus on improving GCSE level. attainment.

Ref Comments

227 I would "strongly agree" provided that the new school was situated on one site and not two.

229 It is vitally important that a state of the art 11-19 school is The proposed changes are essential This is the only option available in order to built in Haverfordwest, as soon as possible, preferably on in order that the number of pupils in improve educational standards in the most suitable site - the most economic site being STP. Milford Haven and Haverfordwest Haverfordwest. This new school will inevitably provide the boost to staff schools is balanced. morale and parent confidence, which is desperately needed in Haverfordwest - this should also result in improved exam results, with newly appointed quality teaching staff in post. The temporary split site arrangement will have to be well- managed and controlled in order that there is minimal impact on staff and pupils. The period for this temporary arrangement should be as short as possible and definitely not become permanent.

230 The proposed new school will reduce competition in This will lead to the closure of the 6th It is cheaper to refurbish both STP and TM Haverfordwest and will in the long term produce poorer form in Milford Haven which will lead and keep them running. It creates results. There is no need to rush any merger in September to a poorer school learning competition which improves standards. 2018 as the WG have said they have not insisted upon this environment and lower attainment. course despite Ian Westley saying repeatedly in a public meeting that they had. Why the 'alternative fact' from him? Better to wait until September 2019 - take your time to do it properly and make sure you have the money (Band B) in

Ref Comments

231 The answer has to be 'strongly agree' as it is what we asked for in February 2014 (3 years ago). However this is not what the proposal put before us indicates. The proposal simply gives a promise of an 11-19 English Medium school on a split site in buildings that PCC admits are not fit for purpose. There is no promise of the school eventually being on a single site at any time in the future. All it promises is that Haverfordwest will have to make do with substandard facilities (but for Welsh speakers) at the same time as Pembroke pupils will enjoy a state of the art school. Is this the best PCC can do?

232 I agree with • Discontinue Sir Thomas Picton School and Consider the following alternatives 1) Build Tasker Milward VC School on 31st August 2018; and agree the English medium school on the Slade site. with • Establish a new 11-19 English medium school in Infrastructure is already in place including Haverfordwest with effect from 1st September 2018 Walking and Cycle routes. Could be built However strongly disagree with utilising the sites of the without any disruption to pupils. 2) Relocate current schools. Previous consultation documents the Pembrokeshire Archives / Training Centre highlighted the deficiencies and poor quality of the to the Taskers Site and reconfigure the environment and buildings of both of the secondary school existing building and build the secondary sites in Haverfordwest and the high cost of repairs. Yet the school on the STP Site 3) Alternatively build proposal is to continue using these schools until funding is the English Medium school alongside the gained. There is no certainty that funding will be gained. Welsh medium secondary school where What happens if the application for funding is rejected ? communal resources could be shared. - ie sports facilities, Dinning rooms halls etc. 92

Ref Comments

In relation to the proposal to close STP & TM schools In relation to the proposal to In relation to alternatives to the proposal and establish a new 11-19 EM school for Haverfordwest designate Johnston CP and Neyland CP schools as feeder schools to Milford Haven School and extend the catchment area of Milford Haven School to encompass the catchment areas for Johnston & Neyland 233 Whilst I agree with the proposal to establish a new 11-19 I understand that there are difficulties in school in Haverfordwest I do have concerns about the timings - ensuring a new school is in place to division of the new school over two sites in order to obtain obtain funding. My concern is that my child Band B spending. The transition period may well last for a will be starting (and completing) A levels few years and although the long term outcome is to improve possibly on a different site and definitely with educational standards I am very worried that for the teachers travelling between both schools. Is immediate future pupils will be amalgamating from two there any way to minimise this disruption? schools in special measures and will continue to be taught Could a new school be established ready for in buildings that are classified as unfit for purpose but with the application, but rather than an immediate the added difficulty of being taught by staff commuting division of year groups, allow Year 7 to begin between two sites. Several months, let alone years of at STP in a similar way suggested for the WM itinerant staff will take its toll. There is a great deal of school? As Johnston CP and Neyland CP uncertainty about how all of this will work - it will all be down will have changed catchment, there would be to the new Head who has 6 months to put one new school space for the Taskers cohort. This would in place across two sites, create a new staffing structure allow the new school to establish itself more and timetable lessons to account for travelling across town. gradually with less disruption for those pupils I would also like more clarity on a back-up planif the Band B approaching or in the middle of GCSEs and A spending is not obtained. Where will this leave staff and Levels and would be more in tune with the pupils already split across two sites? timings of the proposed build.

234 Please move quickly so that the new11 - 19 school spends as little time time as possible on a split site causing major problems for students and teachers.A combined school on one site is the only way forward after the mess we have been left in.

235 The beginning of the Consultation Document begins by reminding us of the duty of PCC to promote high 93

Ref Comments

236 In my opinion you are closing the two schools to get them Raise the standards in the current schools out of the red band for poor provision where they currently and apply for 21st Century funding into to reside. You have not given any indication how closing two build a new ENGLISH medium school. You failing schools and opening one huge school will actually are providing a brand new Welsh medium raise the appalling education standards currently provided. school and not a new English medium You propose to use the current buildings of the two schools school. This is discrimination. If you had which are both in a state of poor repair, are not fit-for- listened to the views of the people initially purpose and do not provide an environment for learning. and not wasted time and money on endless consultations you could have applied for Band A funding instead of now having to wait 3 years for Band B funding. Increase staff morale in the schools, make the pupils proud

Ref Comments

238 Vital to have both Welsh medium and English medium schools in the area

239 As long as there is adequate, appropriate provision then it I don't know enough about the pros Invest in upgrading and refurbishing the should not matter whether there is a new school built in and cons to comment really. existing Schools to provide better facilities essence but there are obvious allegiances and loyalities to than at present. both Schools that will need to be considered.

240 I look foward to the new school but do not want a split site school when we are waiting.

241 I agree with the proposal, highlighting the urgency required There should be no changes in New Haverfordwest School, 11-19, in establishing the new Haverfordwest School on ONE catchment area. The children encompassing current catchment areas, on SITE. In the interim period of the development of the new attending Johnston CP School and one site from its inception. The building School, it should incorporate the current Archives Centre as Neyland CP School should be should be sited on current STP site and a Learning Hub for Sixth form provision, enabling therefore accommodated on at the new School. encompass the Archives building into the all children to be taught from the STP site; by doing this The establishment of a new temporary arrangements. The current Tasker extra space in the STP main building for children will be Haverfordwest School should be a Milward site owned by Pembrokeshire made, supplemented through temporary classrooms on the bespoke model for the area and not County Council should be used to house a Archives Centre Car Park to facilitate all formal teaching to be seen as a vehicle to utilise unfilled new Primary School, be it the proposed be on the one site. One part of the current Tasker Milward spaces on other School rolls. school amalgamation between Mount Airey & 95

Ref Comments

242 I fully support the proposal to merge the 2 Haverfordwest I can suggest no alternatives at this stage but secondary schools and replace them with a new 11-19 the proposal is currently very broad in its school, but this proposal is a very broad one at this stage. outline - and it may be that people will wish to A major concern is that one school is left operating across suggest alternatives to particular details two sites on a permanent basis, which I think would be which are decided upon or suggested at a extremely unfortunate for a multitude of reasons. I hope that later stage. this consultation can be concluded as quickly as possible to end the uncertainty over the schools' future which I believe has had a very damaging effect. Pupils, staff, governors, parents and the local authority can then focus their joint 96

Ref Comments

243 This process may set the standard of education back people in these areas often have a slightly but once everything stabalises it could be hugely more natural attachment to the beneficial. In combining the two, the good side of each haverforwest area. adding any level of school combined together would hopefully discourage any stress caused by a new catchment is of the negative side and create something great. unecessary and could prove detrimental to the learning process.

244 The proposal will (long-term) create a single combined 11- The proposal needs a Plan B, should the 21C 18 English Medium school on a single site in Haverfordwest. funding not materialise, because having the 97

Ref Comments

In relation to the proposal to close STP & TM schools In relation to the proposal to In relation to alternatives to the proposal and establish a new 11-19 EM school for Haverfordwest designate Johnston CP and Neyland CP schools as feeder schools to Milford Haven School and extend the catchment area of Milford Haven School to encompass the catchment areas for Johnston & Neyland This is everything that the overwhelming number of pupils, combined school spread across split sites is parents and teachers have asked for all along, and it is the worst of all worlds. The Chief Exec at therefore excellent news that PCC are finally committing to recent meetings has stated that there is make it happen. They need to now ensure that they fully currently no Plan B. The authority needs to commit to delivering ASAP. Having the school split across commit to ensuring that alternative funds are two sites will create short term difficulties, and PCC needs available to ensure that the school to ensure that it alleviates these by reducing the amount of progresses on a single site should the 21C student movements between schools as far as possible. funding not be forthcoming, either to a new The next two academic years will see two particular cohorts build school, r to renovate the existing of pupils (those midway through GCSE and those midway buildings, and utilise other PCC buildings. through A levels) particularly affected as they will be Adjacent to the STP site is the Archives undertaking half of this study at their current school and half building (newly built), and Cherry Grove at the new combined school. PCC needs to ensure that (newly refurbished). Both could provide extra these pupils are not disadvantaged by ensuring minimal conveniently located accommodation, disruption, consistency of teaching (and teachers) and perhaps for the 6th Form. The authority is e!xtra resources as may be required across these two asking pupils, parents and teachers to put a years. Starting a "clean slate" with the new school is great deal of faith in it in asking them to understandable, but bringing both schools out of "special support these proposals, despite the measures" artificially in this way, may actually have further apparent concerns over funding. PCC needs disadvantages for A level students seeking places at to repay this support and faith, by acting in University. Currently both STP and TM students are able to good faith itself from now on, and ensuring seek "Contextual Offers" from many good universities, such th!at it does whatever is required to produce as Bristol, and Warwick, which means that the entry an excellent single combined 11-18 school on requirements are lowered, by being on the UCAS list of a single site. underperforming schools. PCC should try to ensure that the combination of two currently "failing" schools into a single school doesn't remove the new school from the list of schools qualifying for Contextual University Offers, or by 98

Ref Comments

245 I agree with 11 to 19 schools but I am concerned about the Seek funding to improve the current schools size of the proposed new school. I would rather there are 2 in Haverfordwest and improve standards. schools in Haverfordwest and any investment was used in improving the schools.

246 Although I am happy to support the schools merging and Plan and build a new single site school then retaining a sixth form, I am very concerned you have no site merge and close existing sites or immediate plans for a single site. A split site will be very difficult to raise standards - in fact it could be worse than the current situation.

247 Use the money to improve on present facilities. The What are the facilities to provide for Develop more pastoral options. Children timescale is far too short to shelve the present situation and that many more pupils? need to be able to forge good relationships provide a whole new concept. Larger institutions are not with their significant responsible adults, which neccessarily better. Children need to feel that they belong today, more than ever is the role of the and this sense of belonging gets lost if the institution is too teacher even more than the parent in many large, creating even more disaffection, which is the root of cases, due to disjointed and thereby often all of society's problems. dysfunctional family units.

249 You have sadly left me with no choice but to mark this as I think you really need to be asking Presuming you can secure funding to build a Neither, if you expect these children to be split between the this question exclusively to those new school for these almost 2000 children 2 sites using outdated, crumbling buildings then I strongly specific communities. why not consider putting this new school to disagree however if you are guaranteeing you will find the top of the priority list? Presuming finding funding from somewhere and construct a new state of the has been secured for the new Welsh Medium 99

Ref Comments

250 I agree but only if it is an actual new school as the 2 current Given the choice of schools the Building an English medium and Welsh situation is not sustainable with the buildings in the state students prefer haverfordwest. medium school on the same site but sharing that they are. Milford haven is already struggling certain resources such as sporting facilities with behaviour and I don't feel that seems like a much better idea and more cost adding more children to that situation effective. It also means that there would be is a good idea. more socialising and awareness of the Welsh language rather than segregating it onto a separate and detached site.

252 Children in exam years should be given special consideration so as not to disrupt their studies.

253 The case for change in terms of improving standards, This may be necessary to make best The schools should not be closed and managing excess places and improving condition of use of resources. Parents and pupils merged until a single site solution is found. buildings demands this. I am pleased that the new proposal from these schools views should be Funding should be urgently sought from WG is for a 11-19 school, for all the reasons that are well known considered or locally to facilitate this. Standards are as a result of the previous consultation reports. HOWEVER making promising progress in both schools at 100

Ref Comments

In relation to the proposal to close STP & TM schools In relation to the proposal to In relation to alternatives to the proposal and establish a new 11-19 EM school for Haverfordwest designate Johnston CP and Neyland CP schools as feeder schools to Milford Haven School and extend the catchment area of Milford Haven School to encompass the catchment areas for Johnston & Neyland - there are several issues which I believe make the proposal present, (I appreciate that KS4 results need unsatisfactory. The schools should not be closed until the to be improved this summer to satisfy ESTYN lack of clarity on the site of the new school is resolved, and etc ) - another year or two as two schools is the new facilities are available for use by all pupils. The preferable to fudging a multi-site solution for 'temporary' use of a two site school presents NEARLY ALL an indeterminate period. the negative features raised by the proposal of an 11-16 school, as it stands for an indeterminate period that will have a major effect on pupils, staff and the local community. Namely: 1. The pupils will not feel like it is a new single school - leading to significant issues with standardising teaching and learning, behaviour management, aspiration, ethos etc 2. Issues around staff moving betwe!en sites - potentially leading to problems in recruitment and retention (impacting standards) 3. Issues around pupils moving between sites- potentially affecting attendance and engagement in learning, hence standards (2 and 3 resulting in staff potentially not forming and maintaining relationships with pupils throughout school career) 4. Potential for some pupils not being involved with others in the school community - eg KS3 not seeing KS5 as role models around school, lack of opportunity for mentoring of younger pupils by older etc. 5. Lack of efficiencies of scale that would be offered by a single site eg one big canteen, admin support, 6. Duplication of teaching resources, support services etc 7. Use of unsatisfactory buildings for an indeterminate period 8. Logistics and cost of school transport to two sites 9. Effect on staff of being restricted to teaching limited cohorts of pupils eg KS3 / 4 only etc - potentially leading to 101

Ref Comments

257 I support the New English-medium School from the ages of 11-19 having a 6th form. The two years in the Sixth Form are important and are likely to be the most exciting and rewarding of a student’s school career. They give students the opportunity to develop their academic potential to the full, to make firm friendships, to take part in many interesting extra-curricular activities and play an important part in the whole school community; in fact it is the 6th formers who actively help in the coordination and organisation of these extra curricular activities. All the schools in the North of the county with a 6th form take part in a wide range of activities with a strong school tradition in music, sport and dramatic productions. Take for example the recent production of the “Sounds of Music” at Sir Thomas Picton School. Led by the 6th formers but also embracing all ages from all age groups across the school. Younger pupils look up to the 6th formersas role models, Life in the Sixth Form is not just about academic work and there are many opportunities to make a contribution to the school community. As I have already mentioned as well as developing their own skills and interests, many Sixth Formers also gain much from their involvement in organising clubs and activities for other pupils in the school. No school can afford to loose that essential piece of the jicksaw that makes a good and 103

Ref Comments

258 We cannot mess around debating this issue, the parents & This could be a positive move, as long As Haverfordwest person, Tasker Milward people of Haverfordwest were clear 3 years ago. as it does not mean busing children all has served the town well, but out grew its Haverfordwest needs a one site provision of 11 - 19 years. over the county just to make numbers facilities 20 years ago. The accessibility is If not on the STP site. Then next to the new Welsh school in up for certain area. very limited & not suitable to build modern Withybush or across the road on council land between A40 buildings etc. But the site should be retained (TR) & Withybush access road. Plenty of room & road as a sporting site of excellence with all infrastructure. But where & when the ever the final decision weather tracks, pool & conference facility. is made, its got to be quick & decisive for our children's sake.

259 There is a definite need to pool teaching resources to enable pupils to be taught by teachers who specialise in that subject which they are teaching. At present too many supply teachers are asked to teach pupils in subject areas for which they are not trained in or have not specialised in. This 105

Ref Comments

260 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - respondent does not want their comments to be made publically available)

261 I am pleased that the County Council has agreed at last with It is essential for these changes to be If the STP site is chosen the new school the wishes of parents and pupils in Haverfordwest to have made for the two secondary schools could be built whilst education is progressing the choice at 16+ of either school or college. The school on to be of a size to offer the requisite 'A' in the present school because the site is two sites needs to be as short as possible a period of time level courses to its students. large enough to accommodate the proposed before the new school is in place to compete with the new scheme. Welsh medium school.

265 I think the funds should be used to improve both the Stop messing people around. separate schools. I think that all this interruption and distractment and all this time wasted is an embarrassment to the council. Shame on you for affecting childrens education.

267 If it ain't broken, don't fix it.

268 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - (comments redacted for the purposes respondent does not want their comments to be made of this document - respondent does publically available) not want their comments to be made publically available) 106

Ref Comments

276 No changes towards schools, money used for improvements.

277 I think there should be one sixth form centre for Pembrokeshire which has a viable population. I believe that having a basic foundation of 5-8 GCSE's at grade C for the majority of pupils is more important than A level sixth forms in a number of schools for a majority of the school's pupils. GCSE grades will only improve if more resources and specialist provision is invested in KS3 and 4.

280 I will be in 6th form when this happens and it will affect me. I don't know.

284 I will have left school so this will not affect me. I live in Johnston and I believe Do not change catchment area. Haverfordwest would be better for Johnston than Milford would.

286 I think it should stay as it is as it would be disrupting my A Keep both schools open and fund them. levels. However it is good that the school has a 6th form.

288 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - respondent does not want their comments to be made publically available)

107

Ref Comments

291 xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (comments redacted for the purposes of this document - respondent does not want their comments to be made publically available)

294 No one likes STP

295 2 failing schools, joined together = 1 large failing school Too far

296 I do not live there I'd rather not close the school whilst I'm in sixth form.

300 One secondary school in Haverfordwest with 6th form is needed and the right way forward however location and details (timescales) need to be known asap. With an Autistic son about to sit GCSE's and make important choices - its paramount.

301 Totally agree with the governing body of TMS with a single Agree in principle with Johnston and 11-19 year school in Haverfordwest, but the transition Neyland CP schools becoming should not take place until the new school is completed. feeders for Milford Haven School, if it means a fairer distribution of pupils, 108

Ref Comments

302 The school will merge to become too large. Large schools This would improve class sizes in the are proven not to produce happy, secure children. However, new school. we welcome a sixth form provision apart from Pembs College. I do not agree with merging schools prior to building a new one as this will disrupt them twice instead of once.

305 This consultation was undertaken with 6 pupils, 3 from Year 2/3rds of the group agreed to none, 5 and 3 from Year 6. The majority response was disagree but 1/3 was strongly disagree. They as they didn't really like the idea of the schools changing. felt that they didn't know enough They felt that there would be a lot of confusion if pupils had about transferring to Milford to have a to change sites for different lessons and a lot of extra traffic. strong opinion. One pupil was Would year groups be split up between the two sites? How concerned about traditional would they learn with all the building work going on? rivalry/bullying between pupils in Milford and those in Neyland. Others felt that there would be issues with some older siblings going to Haverfordwest and younger ones having to go to Milford. If they wanted to go to Haverfordwest with their older brothers and sisters, how would they get there? Would there be an extra cost? Would they be allowed to apply 109

Ref Comments

306 My two children have been upset and disrupted 3 years at We moved house to live in STP (?) tatty building where they are. Keep STP primary school and (?) suffering at secondary school. Leave catchment. Will (?) a lot of family. non church school so children have choice. children where they are stop the upset until a new building is built so one move - children do not know what going on and feel powerless - already experience at hands of council on primary move - given no choice. Wrecking their education.

HW1 I strongly disagree with the proposal to change the catchment area of Johnston to Milford Haven School. Why Johnston?? I moved to Johnston 13 years ago, with the knowledge my children would have their secondary education in Haverfordwest. With that in mind I have always encouraged social activities in Haverfordwest, rather than Milford Haven.

I have three children. Two are currently in Taskers and one in Year 5 Johnston School. September 2018, my son will start year 11, so will obviously stay in Haverfordwest education. So effectively I will have two children going in opposite directions each morning! Working and having children is enough of a “juggle”, without having them in opposite directions to their homw. Plus I obviously want them in the same school anyway.

Johnston has a Haverfordwest postcode, so why go to Milford Haveb School? I understand why Neyland. It has a Milford Haven postcode and where it is geographically on the map proposal.

Part of my job as a parent is to prepare them for their secondary education, which I have done for my youngest over the past four years, getting him involved with Haverfordwest activities, so he already knows children he would eventually go to school with. Likewise Johnston School has all my sons time there intergrated with Haverfordwest schools in sporting matches, never Milford Haven schools.

110

Ref Comments

I feel after school activities are important. My other children have always been able to be involved in these, as I work in Haverfordwest, so collection is possible. This would not be the case if my son were to go to Milford Haven School. Something I considered when moving to Johnston.

My sons year group has nine boys including him. Four of which live in Milford Haven, One in Port Lion, four in Johnston. That would mean seven boys and him going to a school that is totally alien, with no older children from Johnston. A huge school, knowing seven other boys! Johnston School encourages intergration of all year groups, so he has good friends older than himself. Transition would be awful! As a parent I would feel I had failed him. I feel so strongly I would consider moving, which is devastating after building my forever home in Johnston.

If this proposal goes ahead, please still give children currently in year 5 a choice as to where they go.

HW2 I have read through the Consultation paperwork relating to Secondary School Re-organisation in Haverforwdset and as a parent and former pupil of Sir Thomas Picton School, I wish to support the proposal for an 11-19 Year Secondary School in the town.

I would have hoped that the Local Authority would have been able to identify a single site but I understand that this is not possible at present. I am encouraged by the fact that further funding may be available from Welsh Government as I have found during my educational work, that split site schools are often at a disadvantage when compared to single site schools. Therefore, I would urge the Local Authority to engage with Welsh Government at the earliest opportunity in order that a single new 1-19 Year school is on the cards.

I note that the Local Authority has been in consultation with the Tasker Milward and Picton charity and I would strongly recommend that the new school should become a voluntary controlled school in order that the charitable aspects of the relevant Trust might not be lost. There are currently five foundation governors each on the Tasker Milward and Sir Thomas Picton School governing bodies, and I would suggest that suitable allowance be made within the new governing body for fair representation of foundation governors who seem to offer themselves freely to supporting their particular schools.

111

Ref Comments

Considerable thought has been given to the proposal and the response submitted in the context of the governing body’s primary commitment to the welfare, education and future prospects of the young people within the catchment area of Tasker Milward School.

As you are aware my collegaues and I were very critical of the previous consultation papers as they suggested the loss of sixth form education to the secondary schools in Haverfordwest.

The current consultation appears to have taken into account the overwhelming views of the general public that sixth form education should be retained in a new secondary school within the town although, as the consultation document suggests, there will be a need to rationalise the sixth form provision within the new school.

Need for change The governing body accepts the need for change in order to address the surplus places issue and also to provide new school buildings which, in themselves, should significantly contribute towards the process of raising standards within Haverfordwest and its immediate environs.

Governors general view The overwhelming view of the governing body is that the two Haverfordwest Secondary Schools should close, and a new 11-19 secondary school should be built – either on one or other of the existing sites in Haverforwdest, or on a completely new site.

It is accepted that financial issues may result in a delaying factor as far as the new single site school is concerned but the governors believe that if this recommendation is approved by full council in order to proceed to the next stage, the Local Authority should use all of its endeavours to urge upon Welsh Government the necessity for a prompt resolution to the single school site issue as a matter of urgency.

An early transfer of pupils to such a site should restrict the inevitable disruption and undoubted uncertainty which the initial closure of the two schools will create.

112

Ref Comments

The difficulties of a two centre site include:

a) Division of the 11-19 school group

b) Divisions of staff experience – timetabling issues

c) Staff issues relating to transport between sites

d) Potentail pupil issues relating to transport between two sites

e) Transport issues at the beginning and end of each day

f) Continued use of unsuitable buildings with fast deteriorating fabric

g) Division of resources other than staff

h) Creation of a shared identity and ethos as one school

i) Establishment of shared values and same standards in terms of – attendance, behaviour, uniform etc.

j) Economies if scale – these cannot be fully addressed until a single site is in being. One administration block and one senior leadership team should be far more economical to run than two, as would be one single site.

113

Ref Comments

Challenges Whilst this consultation process pre-empts future challenges for a new school, we fel it appropriate to raise some of these issues immediately – in view of the fact that a new school is proposed to take effect from 1 September 2018. Our concerns relate to:

a) Future staffing structure

b) Appointments to the temporary governing body

c) Appointment of senior leadership team in the new school

d) Provision of completely new statutory policies relating to the new school – there are currently dozens of these relating to Tasker Milward alone

e) … as stated above the early appointment of the Headteacher and meeting agreed deadlines for appointments will alleviate this problem.

School size The consultation document suggests a school size of approximately 1900 pupils. The governing body has no issues with this particular matter as it feels that once such a school is in place on one site, the size will be workable, creating many advantages – among them choice of subjects – for pupils. However, the loss of the Johnston and Neyland catchment areas together with the unknown impact of a Welsh Secondary school on numbers remains partly an unknown quantity.

Catchment areas The governing body has no major issue with the designation of Johnston CP School and Neyland CP School as feeder schools to Milford Haven Secondary School. However, we feel that consideration should be given to the views of families with children in these feeder schools in the event that they may have siblings already in place in either Tasker Milward or Sir Thomas Picton Schools.

114

Ref Comments

Site The governing body has no specific preference for a site location but is concerned at potential delays which may occur if and when building construction work commences.

The Tasker Milweard site area is the smaller of the existing secondary school locations, but its access to the major transport network serving Haverfordwest is far superior to that of the Sir Thomas Picton School, however the larger siize of the STP site could create advantages as far as school design is concerned. In addition the STP site is close to the Pembrokeshire Archives Building which already incorporates a number of conference rooms which could be, if necessary, adapted for school purposes.

Conclusion The governors of Tasker Milward VC School recognise that the proposed closure of both Tasker Milward and Sir Thomas Picton Schools in Haverfordwest, and the construction of a new school will undoubtedly benefit the current and future students of the area.

The enthusiasm for an 11-19 school remains strong and we believe that such enthusiasm may be easily channelled into attitudes and actions by both staff and students to ensure the raising of educational standards in Haverfordwest.

We believe that there is a way forward to retain the support of the Tasker Milward and Picton Trust within the new school as the impact of this charitable body upon both Tasker Milward and Sir Thomas Picton Schools’ over very many years has been significant.

We remain concerned about the unanswered questions relating to the eventual location of the new school, the facilities proposed for the school and transport arrangements.

We would urge that the statutory processes should be completed at the earliest opportunity in order to ameliorate the inevitable impact of such a decision on both staff and pupils.

The main issue is to move forward with what we consider to be a workable and invaluable project which will provide untold advantages for the generations of pupils who will receive education at such a facility. 115

Ref Comments

The Governors support the proposal on the condition that within a short period the new school will be fully integrated on one permanent site.

HW4 On behalf of the Governing Body of Sir Thomas Picton School our response is as follows:-

Section 1 We acknowledge the establishment of a new 11-19 English Medium school in Haverfordwest as a first step to improve the performace of all levels with the aim of lifting both schools out of Special Measures.

The proposed temporary split site arrangement needs to be very carefully managed in order that there is minimal impact on both staff and pupils, ao that morale is not damaged during the re-organisation period. This temporary arrangement should be no longer than necessary and development of the new school is commenced within 18 months.

Section 2 These changes in catchment areas are absolutely essential in order that pupil numbers in both Milford Haven and Haverfordwest is balanced.

Section 3 There is a strong case for change and the status quo is not an option. A new state-of-the-art school will inspire pupils to raise their own educational standards to enable them to develop their own long term future.

HW5 I am writing in regard to the closure of Sir Thomas Picton School in Haverfordwest and whilst I object to the school being discontinued I am writing to ask that the building itself is retained either as a part of a newly formed school or as a building that can be used for other purposes. The building has had a vast amount of money spent on it in recent years and it’s an attractive and unusual design that should be preserved for historic purposes.

It was built circa 1954 using a government design that could see the school converted for use as a hospital should the case for it to become one arise. Hence the original school building which consist of the main corridor and A, B, C, D, E and F wing is all ground floor (apart from a small section of A wing) with very few steps. The wings could double up as wards to provide a peaceful and tranquil setting, each classroom has a (recently fitted Upvc) fire door that leads into the gardens for safety purposes. The building is of a solid red brick structure that would have been very expensive at 116

Ref Comments

The red brick has stood the test of time very well and the building looks far newer that it actually is. The original schoolbuilding (and on site canteen buildings) has been very recently fitted with double glazing (with tinted glass) the style chosen is of a similar design to the original steel windows and has obviously been selected so as to keep the building looking as close to original as possible. Circa 2002-2004 a special needs unit that included four new classrooms was added to B wing at a cost of £273,000 and circa 2006-2009 a entire new wing was extended into D wing that included six classrooms two of which were fitted science laboratories as a cost to the tax payer of £1.4 million pounds. Both extensions have been constructed in red brick and through design and materials look to be part of the original school building. The schools toilets have been updated recently and many other upgrades to facilities have been made such as the internet being fitted to every room, a new ICT suite and a new library and learning centre was added in 2012.

There are two further wings at the school G & H wing which are blocks G wing having circa five classrooms over two floors and H wing having circa 12 classrooms and a sixth form area over three floors. Both of these were constructed in the 1970’s and and appear to be a mixture of red brick and white painted concrete plaster both retain there single glassed original steel windows. Pembrokeshire County Councils notes on the condition of the buildings in the consultation PDF file suggest that the two blocks (G & H wings) are where the main area of refurbishment is required therefore I will only put forward the case to save the original part of the school. Also I would suggest that the condition of the G & H wing is what has given the overall condition of the school as grade C.

Sir Thomas Picton School is known for it’s sport facilities that include tennis courts, astro turf, running track, hockey field, rugby field, sports hall with gym facilities and the original school gymnasium these are used for out of school hours and are a benefit to the wider community. The school hall is also used out of school hours for concerts and plays with its large staged area and balcony the hall gives a very grand feel. The school hall also had a lottery grant recently to refurbish it and it’s now up to theatrical standards and can hold 800 people.

The grounds are large and contain many mature trees and shrubs some of which have been planted by pupils in memory of teachers who have died. The large open space of Sir Thomas Picton School grounds brings a huge benefit to wildlife in Haverfordwest and is one of (if not the) largest open areas in the town. It has taken many decades for the trees and shrubs to grow around the school and is not something that can easily be replaced.

117

Ref Comments

I would suggest that Sir Thomas Picton and its building should be retained with an extension added (plenty of room to do so) to incorporate Tasker Milward pupils and staff. Even if the newly formed school has a new name.

Suggested alternative proposal 1:

Close Tasker Milward School retain Sir Thomas Picton and its buildings and add an extension or extensions to the current building either on the large grass area between F wing and the Pembrokeshire Archives building or by extending B, C, E or F wing in the same way that D wing was recently extended to incorporate the new science wing.

It could be an idea to demolish H wing (the largest of the two blocks) and replace that with a new build as it’s more or less stand alone and joins the main corridor via a small extension it also faces the school yard so there would be planty of room for a larger building to be erected and it would save the council (tax payers) millions of pounds and the money spent recently on improvements and extensions to the original building wouldn’t go to waste.

Suggested alternative Proposal 2:

Close Sir Thomas Picton school but retain the building for another use, possibly as it was designed using the Governments hospital design hence the ground floor wings (wards) it could be used by the Hywel Dda Health board as the Withybush Hospital site has now no room for extension the STP building being only a five minutes walk away could be used to upgrade hospital services and ensure that Withybush Hospital remains in place and isn’t closed down due to having no room for expansion. It could also be used as a care home (peaceful surroundings), a hotel/youth hostel, a private school or a small business centre.

The case against a new build school would be the massive cost (Pembrokehsire County Council estimate £52 million) the fact that new uildings are usually and mainly contructed of steel framing, steel panels and glass and are not as long lasting as a brick constrauction and they age and date quickly. They are also not as aesthetically pleasing. The council have also constructed a number of new schools in recent years which means a pool 118

Ref Comments

1950’s builds of which the Sir Thomas Picton building is are (as frequently pointed out in property tevelision programs) of solid build that are built to last. It may need some further money spent on it but that would still be more cost effective than £52 million pounds to build a new school and new buildings don’t stay new for long and after 15 years or so start to need repairs.

I’m sure that when the council spent £1.4 million on the new D wing extension of class rooms that expected to get far more than ten years use out of them. I would also suggest the other recent improvements were made to see the school building last well into the future.

I would strongly urge the council to consider retaining the original Sir Thomas Picton School building as it’s a fine example of a post war historic red brick building of a unique and attractive design that has had vast amounts of money invested in it in recent years and it should be preserved for future generations to enjoy and for the benefit of Haverfordwest.

I am a very proud ex pupil of the school I was there from 1990-1997 and I would be very upset to see the building demolished. I hope you will give my points serious consideration and discuss with other council members. You are also free to pass this letter on to anyone else including the general public and the media. I am happy to discuss this further so feel free to contact me at anytime.

HW6 I write reflecting on the consultation meeting [1st February]. Firstly to add my name to the list of those supporting the proposition discussed … and secondly to highlight a few concerns relating to the process and in particular the effect on learners that could be disadvantaged by the situation. I have two boys who are in that cohort.

At the meeting a question was raised about the need for additional support to students that could be disadvantages by the situation, in particular reference was made to experiences in Newport and what could be learnt from them. I hope that this will be followed up and something shared about what is planned.

119

Ref Comments

It was made clear that once agreement is established responsibility for detailed planning will rest with the newly appointed governors. However you and the LA have a crucial role to play in building a new sense of learning community that brings together different interested parties in Haverfordwest including the college and including parents. It was welcome at the meeting that we have moved on from the negative vibes that took over in the earlier consultation, however that needs to be taken much further to redress the effects. This is vital if there’s going to be an environment in which the new school idea can flourish.

In the earlier consultation a lot of use was made of Estyn evaluations to make negative arguments against the schools or against the college. Much of this was inappropriate and sometimes even going so far to suggest that because a school had poor results in the past that there was never any hope that it could lead in the future. Clearly this was a ludicrous proposition. As part of any wider strategy more needs to be made of positive stories about the schools and the college to build a collective confidence in making our own assessment … not just one via Estyn. To build such confidence there is a need for more emphasis on how you’re going to engage parents and others from the community in a way that will help generate a new vision.

The Shadow School Council idea is very welcome … and I assume it would lead to other ways of involving students in the process. However unless care is taken this could become more symbolic than dynamic. It is important that there are a whole range ways in which the community can get involved … that must be one of the lessons from the experience of the last two years. This will be the case what ever happens but particularly so if it turns out that there has to be a plan B that does not involve a new build.

I do hope that you are able to create a new positive context in which all parties [school and college, parents and students] can feel they are part of a significant move forward.

HW7 Please see responses to the secondary school consultation document from 2 members of our governing body. We would appreciate it if these responses were included in the consultation report. It would also be appreciated if some answers could be given to some of the questions raised

Response 1: “Overall I support the proposal, largely on the basis that the need for change is huge, and that the current configuration is letting down a generation of learners, which is all the more disappointing given that achievement levels are above average when children leave pimary education 120

Ref Comments

I was surprised that the first advantage of the proposal was stated as being that it would be acceptable. I would agree that the primary disadvantage is bringing together two under performing schools, and the leadership challenge this poses is huge.

The proposal seems to focus on addressing the issue of poor and unsuitable buildings, and surplus places. These aspects are backed up by facts. The section which talks about leadership and management is more aspirational, and less convincing.”

Response 2: “It is very interesting and a massive challenge ahead to make sure that the great start provided by the primary sector is contined through our secondary schools. It is clear that this is not happening at present and it must be a priority to improve the standards in Haverforwdset secondary schools such that a generation of our youngsters is not failed in terms of standards and outcomes. I am encouraged by the following in the consultation document:  That the 6th Form will be retained in schools

 The aims of the new provision as stated in section 5.3.2

Areas of concern I have are: 1. The size of the new school. Research carried out for the Local Government Association in 2009 showed that the optimum size for a secondary school is about 900 pupils (source: BBC, 15.9.2009). The average size of state funded secondary schools in England is currently 939. The document does not provide any evidence that combining the two schools into a much larger school of 1500+ pupils under one management team will be more effective than immediately strengthening the management team of each of the current schools and supporting them to improve standards. I would like to know whether the proposal to move to one large school is based on any research into school size and standards.

2. Putting effective leadership in place. It will be a major challenge to deliver the aims of the new provision across the two site. If the proposal goes ahead it is essential that a Head with the following skills is put in place

121

Ref Comments

 previously implementing a strategy for significantly raising the standards of a school in special measures

 ideally, previous experience of merging two schools into a single entity

Finding and attracting a person of this profile will be difficult and possibly expensive – there is no indication of whether any additional budget is available for reorganisation. I can’t see that this person will come from existing staff, otherwise we would be seeing standards improving already and this does not seem to be the case. 3. Timescales for improvement. There is no indication of how soon we are likely to see improvements in standards. The cuncil’s decision date for the proposed changes is ‘TBA’. From looking at the timescales quoted, my understanding is that it would be at least 11 months from the consultation closing date, which would take us to January ’18. I can’t see that a new school could open in September ’18 with a new governing body, and effective leadership in place given the timescales outlined. I am concerned that time is going by while standards are not improving.”

HW8 Executive Summary

1. Introduction

1.1 The Governing Body of Pembrokeshire College welcomes the opportunity to respond to the Statutory Consultation on English Medium Secondary Education in Haverfordwest (hereinafter referred to as the “Proposals”).

1.2 The Governing Body of Pembrokeshire College does not support the Proposals to develop an 11-19 English Medium Secondary School in Haverfordwest, on the basis that we firmly believe that it is not in the best interests of the learners in Pembrokeshire.

122

Ref Comments

a) Both the Schools are in Estyn special measures. b) The performance of the Schools, as judged by Estyn and national school categorisations, has been worsening.

1.4 The failure to explain the extent of the problems, facing the Schools, means that the Document does not address either the cause of those problems or how the Proposals will address those problems. This lack of context is fundamental to addressing the adequacy of the Proposals.

1.5 If the extent of the problems were more clearly described in the Document it would provide the reader with a better understanding of the scale of the changes required and the speed with which a solution is needed, so further generations of learners are not “failed”.

2. The Case for Change

2.1 The case for change in Haverfordwest is unequivocal, due to the poor educational performances of the Schools. The Proposals do not address the following:

a) There is no clear strategy for improving quality, particularly with reference to:

i. Key Stage 4 performance: GCSE performance

ii. Key Stage 5: A Level performance.

b) The impact on staff resources at the schools. c) How leadership in the new school will be improved. d) The financial implications of the merger, particularly as the Schools collectively are forecasting a deficit.

123

Ref Comments

2.2 Most importantly, the Proposals do not form part of an overall strategy for the improvement in standards in secondary schools in Pembrokeshire or explain how this will ensure the best use of public funds.

2.3 Given the scale of the problems that face the Schools, there is no timescale or “route plan” for improvement included in the document. It is, therefore, unclear how much longer the learner must suffer, what is clearly recognised and accepted as a sub-standard provision, before improvements can be expected.

2.4 The Document does not clearly state that the solution being proposed is not the best solution educationally. The dismissal of the other options on the sole grounds of whether the Proposals are politically acceptable, confirms that the Proposals are not in the best interests of the learner. This is not explicit in the Document.

2.5 The educational solution for Haverfordwest, rejected by the County Council in May 2016, for an 11 -16 English medium school in Haverfordwest was promulgated clearly on educational grounds. Importantly, this original Proposal was recommended by three separate experts in the field of education, as the best way forward educationally, namely:

- Tribal Education - Lloyd Wilson Partnership - The Director of Children and Schools, Pembrokeshire County Council

2.6 It is self-evident that the current Proposals, which disregards (without explanation) the views of these experts, cannot be in the best interests of the learner. In these circumstances, we cannot support the Proposals. 124

Ref Comments

3. New premises

3.1 In addition to failing to address important issues, the Document is confusing as to whether or not new school premises will be provided as part of the Proposals:

In the introduction to the document (page 4), the Proposal is clearly set out: “Discontinue Sir Thomas Picton and Tasker Milward VC School on 31st August 2018; Establish a new 11-19 English medium school in Haverfordwest utilising the sites of the current schools”

In Section 5, however, an additional clause is added: “Consideration to be given to accessing Band B of the Twenty-first Century Schools Programme in order to build new premises for the school, subject to Council and Welsh Government approvals”

3.2 In our opinion, the additional clause has given rise to a source of confusion and raises the following questions:

a) Will the new school have new premises, or will it operate from two sites? b) Will the Council finance the expenditure on a new school, or will it be subject to accessing Band B? c) What are the capital cost implications? d) What is the impact on operating costs of these potential outcomes? e) If it operates from two sites, how will the education provision be split between the two sites? f) What are the timescales?

3.3 Further confusion arises over the status of Welsh Government funding. It is not clear:

a) That the Council has returned Band A funding of £12 million to Welsh Government, which has now been lost.

125

Ref Comments

3.4 Although less than clear, our understanding of the Proposals is that set out in the introduction to the document and that the possibility of new school premises, referred to in Section 5, is an aspiration, rather than being intrinsic to the Proposals.

3.5 We believe this should be made clear in any decision-making process. Given the potential for confusion, as a matter of process, we recommend that any responses, arising from a misunderstanding of the additional clause, should be disregarded.

4. Concluding Remarks

4.1 In conclusion:

4.1.1 The Proposals have significant shortcomings in setting out key information, necessary for a decision to be taken and are abstruse as to the way in which the Proposals will impact the learner, other educational establishments and will provide value for money. Because of these shortcomings, we believe that the Document is in breach of the School Organisation Code (006/2013).

4.1.2 Our fundamental concern is that these Proposals are self-evidently not in the best interests of the learner. The Document recognises that the Proposals are being driven politically, without explaining the rational grounds of why a “political decision” is in the best interests of the learner. Unfortunately, a close examination of the Document indicates that the Proposals are making, what can only be described as “the best of a bad job”. We do not think this is the basis on which the education of Pembrokeshire learners should be determined.

4.1.3 The Proposals do not address the strategic issue of how education can be improved across Pembrokeshire for the benefit of the learner. Looking at one aspect in isolation is unlikely to provide an optimum solution. In this regard, the Proposals are ignoring the advice of the Welsh Government.

126

Ref Comments

Section 1: The Case for Change - Summary of School Performance

1.1 Pembrokeshire College believes that the case for change in secondary education in Haverfordwest is unequivocal.

1.2 We are concerned that in some instances, the Consultation Document does not demonstrate clearly the current state of the Schools. It is not evident from the Document that the performance of the Schools has been deteriorating and that both the Schools are in now in “special measures” – in the case of Tasker Milward the school has been in special measures since 2014.

1.2 Although data is provided in the document on school performances, it is not informative, as comparisons are not consistently made with national comparators, families of schools, nor with historic data to demonstrate trends.

1.3 The failure to set out the worsening performance of the Schools does not demonstrate the scale of the problem to the reader, nor the speed with which a solution is required. In particular, the position of the Schools demonstrates clearly the need for an educational based solution and not one based on political expediency.

1.4 Estyn Judgements The performance of the Schools in terms of Estyn categorisation has declined over the last 4 years.

127

Ref Comments

Date Tasker Milward Sir Thomas Picton

Adequate judgements in Previously inspected in March 2013 Estyn Inspection – placed 2010, and judged to be ‘in need of significant ‘good with some improvement’ category outstanding features’

June 2014 Placed in special measures

Adequate judgements in January 2015 Estyn Inspection – placed in ‘Estyn follow up’ category

June 2016 Placed in special measures

February 2017 Remains in special Remains in special measures measures

(Source: Estyn.gov.uk)

128

Ref Comments

1.5 School National Categorisation Performance of the Schools in terms of national categorisation has declined over the last 3 years.

Tasker Milward Standards Group Improvement Support Category School Capacity

2014 3 D

2015 4 C

2016 4 C

129

Ref Comments

Sir Thomas Picton Standards Group Improvement Support Category School Capacity

2014 2 B

2015 2 C

2016 3 D

(Source: My Local Schools.gov.uk)

The tables above show the trends in Welsh national categorisations over the last 3 years. You will note:

 The “standards group” is derived from a range of indicators of school standards, with “1” being the best and “4” the worst

 The “improvement capacity” is an Estyn evaluation of the schools’ capacity to improve further

 The “support category” is an Estyn judgement on the level of support required by the schools, with “green” indicating that the schools are excellent or outstanding and “red” indicating schools that are causing concern

130

Ref Comments

 standards are poor

 they require critical intervention

 they have an automatic warning letter from the Local Authority, who could use statutory powers where necessary

 they require effective joint working from the Local Authority and Regional Consortium

 they will start common ‘school causing concern’ arrangements

 they will lose some autonomy and have a more directed approach

(Source: Consultation Document, January 2017)

1.63 Pupils leaving schools – progression and the creation of NEETS The Consultation Document is silent on the progression of pupils at the end of year 11. At this point in time:

 Significantly fewer pupils continue with their education full time in school and college than the national comparator (79.5% in Pembrokeshire compared with 87.9% for Wales)  Significantly more pupils progress to non-employed work based learning routes (9.2% for Pembrokeshire compared with 4.3% for Wales)  Significantly more pupils become NEET (3.8% for Pembrokeshire compared with 2.8% in Wales)

131

Ref Comments

Pembs Wales Pembs Wales

2012 83.0% 84.6% 9.5% 5.1% 2013 84.5% 86.4% 8.7% 5.4%

2014 82.7% 87.5% 8.7% 4.7% 2015 79.5% 87.9% 9.2% 4.3%

This is a major concern.

Leaving school after year 11, 3.8% of Pembrokeshire pupils are known not to be in education, training or employment (NEETS). This is an increase of 0.6 percentage points from 2015 and is at the same level as it was in 2011. It is also 1% point above the all Wales average. This places the County in 21st position out of the 22 Local Authorities.

(Source: Careers Wales Pupil Destinations from School in Wales to 30 September 2016)

2015 Destination data for year 11 pupils show that pupils in Pembrokeshire schools are less likely to stay on to continue their full-time education, after year 11, than pupils in the rest of Wales. Conversely, Pembrokeshire pupils are more likely to enter a ‘non-employed route’ for work-based learning (i.e. traineeships) than the rest of Wales. This means that they are unclear about future direction, and are termed ‘unfocussed’.

(Source: Careers Wales – 2015 Destinations by Local Education Authority: Careerswales.com)

The poor performance in this area reflects a lack of advice provided to pupils in school as to the options available to them Post 16. The Proposal fails to address how these issues, and the problem of NEETs and those pupils that are categorised as “unfocussed“, will be resolved.

132

Ref Comments

It has been well documented that, across Pembrokeshire, school enrolment numbers are falling and that given, the number of pupils who will access Post 16 provision, is also declining. Current numbers quoted in the PLASC 2016 are 94 for Tasker Milward and 177 for Sir Thomas Picton creating a total of 271 Post 16 learners in both schools with a downward trend by 2021.

School Actual Forecast

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021

Sir Thomas Picton 177 167 171 179 181 181

Tasker Milward 94 128 107 88 78 74

Total 271 295 278 267 259 255

(Source: PLASC 2016)

A recent Research Report produced for the Welsh Government reports that evidence suggests the following, with respect to the size of sixth forms:

- those with significantly fewer than 200 ‘A’ Level students require substantial subsidy from the rest of the school budget, even where they offer a restricted choice of subjects;

133

Ref Comments

- those with 500+ students can offer wide subject choice and lower unit costs, though modest economies of scale persist up to 1000 students and perhaps beyond this point.

(Source: A Think Piece on the Possible Options for Improving the Performance and Efficiency of Sixth Forms in Wales: Maguire Policy Research for Welsh Government, 2016)

Although the collective sixth form will increase, it is clear the choice of subjects will be restricted in order that the provision would be viable. The nature of the restriction and how the provision will relate to the A Level and vocational provision offered in Pembrokeshire College is not addressed.

1.7.2 Whilst the Consultation Document indicates that pupil numbers will grow, with the exception of additional housing yield, it is not clear how the projected number of pupils has been calculated. Growth from additional housing is included on page 15 of the Consultation Document, and estimated pupil numbers are shown on page 33 of the Consultation Document.

The table on page 33 shows: a) The pupil numbers in the new school (existing feeder school configuration) from a current 1827 on roll in 2017, to a projected 1974 on roll for 2023. We assume this incorporate the additional housing yield.

b) The pupil numbers in the new school following a change in the feeder catchment areas. This shows a reduction of 200 pupils over the next 6 years, but does not appear to account for housing yield. This is confusing.

Again, it is difficult to interpret the number, due to a lack of clarity. Critically, however, the impact of additional pupils on Milford Haven Secondary School is unclear. 134

Ref Comments

1.8 Sixth Form provision – access to vocational curricula The 2013 OECD study of education found that one of the most important factors in a country’s capacity to contain the rise in youth unemployment, in times of crisis, is the way that institutional arrangements, between education and work, facilitate transition into employment. It found that countries with relatively high numbers of 25-34 year-old learners, from vocationally oriented programmes, had a better record of employment compared with those learners pursuing non-vocational studies.

(Source: Education at a Glance 2013 – OECD Indicators: OECD Publishing 2013).

As the experience from successful economies demonstrates, it is exposure to vocational qualifications Post-16 which will stimulate economic activity and reduce unemployment.

It is unclear how the Proposals will help provide our young people with a better opportunity to improve their chances of further progression and employment.

The Consultation Document also does not make it clear what access there will be to vocational provision; how high quality vocational resources will be provided and how access to vocationally competent teaching staff will be achieved. It does not explain how the existing resources in Pembrokeshire College can be utilised to best effect for the benefit of the learner. The lack of clarity suggests duplicate resources will be provided in Haverfordwest, missing the opportunity to improve vocational facilities in South Pembrokeshire.

Section 2: There is no clear strategy for the improvement in quality, particularly at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5

2.1 Lack of strategy

Within the Consultation Document, there is no clear strategy for the improvement in quality, either at Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 5 A Level.

135

Ref Comments

2.1.1 Performance at Key Stage 4 The attainment data table 1 (page 20 of the Consultation Document) fails to include national comparators. The reader does not, therefore, know whether the results are good or bad. Whilst 2016 national comparators were not available at the time of publication, full information for 2015 could have been published as a true comparator.

Following the issue of national comparators for 2016 towards the end of January 2017, the position is set out below. The graphs below demonstrate, for each school:

 Their performance for Key Stage 4 indicators, where “0” - the horizontal axis - represents the Welsh national comparator

 The performance of their “family of schools”, calculated in the same way

For Tasker Milward, the graph below indicates that not only is Tasker Milward performing significantly below Welsh national comparators, but most worryingly, it is performing significantly below its family of schools.

136

Ref Comments

Tasker Milward School

Performance at Key Stage 4

5.3 5.0 5.0 3.4

Level 2 Inclusive Level 2 Core Subject Level 1 Indicator -0.7

-5.9

-9.3

-13.5

Tasker Milward School Family of Schools

137

Ref Comments

Published data, as above, shows that the Key Stage 4 performance remains poor.

Sir Thomas Picton School is performing slightly above Welsh national comparators. However, again, it is performing significantly below its “family of schools”.

Sir Thomas Picton School

Performance at Key Stage 4 8.2 8.5

5.7 4.9

2.5 2.8 1.7 0.9

Level 2 Inclusive Level 2 Core Subject Indicator Level 1

Sir Thomas Picton School Family of Schools 138

Ref Comments

Sir Thomas Picton has been in Estyn special measures since January 2015 and has been subject to regular monitoring visits ever since. Recommendation 1 of the 2015 Inspection was to ‘raise standards and improve performance across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, particularly that of boys.’

The Consultation Document does not identify clearly the extent of the problem, neither does it define how the problem will be addressed, nor how quickly.

2.1.2 Performance at Key Stage 5: A Level Pembrokeshire Schools, overall, performed particularly poorly for A Levels in 2016. Overall pass rates at A Level placed the Pembrokeshire Local Authority 20th out of 22 Local Authorities (Source: Walesonline, 19th August 2016).

The graphs below indicate the performance at A Level for the two schools in 2015/16. Again, taking “0” - the horizontal axis - as the national comparator, the graph shows relative performance for A*/A grades, A*-C grades, and A*-E grades.

In all key indicators, Tasker Milward School performs below national comparators.

Sir Thomas Picton School does not perform well for the best grades and is approximately in line with national comparators for A*-C grades.

139

Ref Comments

-2.7 -4.3 -3.4

-15.5

Tasker Milward School Sir Thomas Picton School

There is reference in the Consultation Document to widening choice at A Level, but there is no indication of how quality improvement will be secured, nor how a widened choice can be financially sustained.

2.2 Estyn’s Common Inspection Framework

Analysis of the Consultation Document in the context of Estyn’s Common Inspection Framework, identifies areas which should form part of a clear strategy for improvement, but which are lacking. 140

Ref Comments

As outlined in the Consultation Document (page 22), the case for change is centred on the need to:

‘improve educational standards for learners, in terms of their academic achievements, the progress they make, and life chances and opportunities as they progress from education into training and employment’.

In the longer term, and subject to obtaining the appropriate capital investment, the Proposals will also: - Address surplus places

- Address the condition and suitability of buildings

The School Organisation Code 2013 (“the Code”) states that in terms of quality and standards in education:

“Relevant bodies should place the interests of learners above all others” (page7 of the Code).

Further, on page 27 of the Code, it states that the consultation document must explain the following at the school or schools, which are the subject of the Proposals and at any other school or educational institution which is likely to be affected:

 “the likely impact of the Proposals on the quality of the following (reference to relevant Estyn Key Questions are included in brackets): a. outcomes (standards and wellbeing); b. provision (learning experiences, teaching, care support and guidance, and learning environment); c. leadership and management (leadership, improving quality, partnership working and resource management).

 “the likely impact of the Proposals on the ability of school or schools which are the subject of the Proposals or any other school which is likely to be affected, to deliver the full curriculum at the foundation phase and each Key Stage of education.”

141

Ref Comments

2.2.1 In relation to the Common Inspection Framework we offer the following comments:

Key Question 1: Improvement in Standards

 The Consultation Document includes an aim to “achieve and exceed the ERW target of 65% achieving L2i”. However:

 there is no timeframe for achievement  there are no transition targets  there is no real indication of the plan to achieve such improvement, other than nebulous comments regarding approaches to learning and transformation

There are no targets for any other performance indicator, references to national comparators or average family of schools’ comparators.

 The Consultation Document refers to:

 “discussing innovative approaches to learning”  “use of technology as a central tool for accessing and analysing information, as well as creating new content”  engaging stakeholders in “thinking about opportunities for learners and the need for high quality provision”  “transformational approaches will be discussed and agreed”

142

Ref Comments

 There are no references to the need to improve basic standards of literacy or numeracy. Most concerning, there is no reference to the achievement of core subject indicators at Key Stage 4, in the attainment data shown. There are no wider references to skills development.

 There is no reference to arrangements for keeping learners healthy and safe and specifically:

 no articulation of how community involvement will develop  no reference to social or life skills

 There is no indication as to how attendance would be improved. At present, both schools have rates of attendance below the Welsh average, and below the average for their family of schools. This is particularly concerning, as it is a specific recommendation from Sir Thomas Picton’s Estyn Inspection report of January 2015 and the school was deemed to have made ‘limited progress’ in addressing this recommendation in the monitoring visit of June 2016.

Key Question 2: Provision

The Section on provision (page 26) is both confusing and contradictory when compared with other Sections of the Consultation Document.

 The Proposal refers to “the rationalisation of provision across Haverfordwest”, which “will support the increase in courses and options… for all pupils, both Pre and Post 16”. It is unclear how this applies to Post 16 provision.

143

Ref Comments

 The Proposal refers to widening general and vocational provision. The availability of excellent facilities for vocational provision, delivered by vocationally competent staff at Pembrokeshire College has not been considered.

 Furthermore, we are concerned at the statement that the “establishment of a new combined sixth form…. is central to achieving a county-wide solution to schools based Post 16 education provision”. Stating this in a Consultation Document without a clear impact assessment on the effect on other Post 16 educational establishments in the County and an articulated and agreed strategy is, in our opinion, irresponsible and potentially damaging to other Institutions.

 The provision indicates that the more minority subjects, such as drama and music will run:

“larger class sizes for academic provision of less populous subjects – such as drama and music – make these classes viable to run”.

Based on our research work, we cannot understand how these classes will become viable, and suggest that this needs to be explained. It further states that the rationalisation of provision should “enable the protection of subjects that traditionally attract smaller learner uptake”, without explaining the basis on which this will occur.

 There is no reference to care, support and guidance, nor safeguarding of learners.

 Given the arrangements for Post 16 within the new school, and the Campus6 provision which will be operational from September 2017, it remains the case that:

144

Ref Comments

Key Question 3: Leadership and Management

Staffing

 Implications on staff resources are lacking. Whilst the temporary Governing Body will hold responsibility for the detail, it would be reasonable to expect an estimate of any potential redundancies, or additional staff requirements.

 We agree with the aspiration that the subjects will benefit from the ‘specialisation of staff’. There is, however, no reference to implications for staff, apart from a generic statement referring to a “planned training programme”.

 It should be noted that staff may not serve an induction period in a school requiring special measures (The Education (Induction Arrangements for School Teachers) (Wales) Regulations 2015). Therefore schools requiring special measures should not normally appoint a newly qualified teacher (NQT) to their staff. When the new school is opened, its Estyn ‘status’ is unclear, but if the ‘special measures’ remain in place, the ability to attract newly qualified teaching staff will be limited.

 The leadership team is critical and there is no indication of the expertise and skills required, nor how the leadership team will be selected.

145

Ref Comments

 The performance of both schools must be the responsibility of their respective governing bodies. However, in the Proposal this issue is not addressed and no description of how the temporary Governing Body will be selected, nor the criteria on which future Governors will be selected, in order to ensure such failings do not recur.

Finance

 Section 7: Finances, is lacking in any relevant information.

 The Potential for a new build: o Interestingly, its opening sentence refers to ‘the potential for a new £52,000,000 school build’, without any analysis of whether this:  is affordable; or  provides value for money when compared with alternative schemes o It also fails to refer to the recent return of Twenty-first Century Schools Band A funding to the Welsh Government and any impact this may have on the ability to attract funding in the future.

 The current financial position of the schools: o Revenue implications state that ‘costs are examined holistically across Pembrokeshire’s Secondary School Sector’. There is no estimates of forecast costs or savings for the two specific schools concerned. At this level, a holistic view is inappropriate.

146

Ref Comments

 Implication of the Proposals: o There is no indication of potential savings, nor cost implications arising from the changes. o There is a statement that ‘… it is estimated that in the short term, there will be an increased financial cost of school transport, but which cannot be quantified at this time’. Given the knowledge of catchment area Proposals and pupil numbers, this should be possible to estimate. o Nothing in the Consultation Document states how the Schools would ensure their own institutional viability. The condition of buildings will remain poor – money being diverted into old school building maintenance away from learning, teaching and support.

 Implications of the Proposals on resources – surplus places and duplication: o The Proposals do not address surplus places. Surplus places will be retained in Haverfordwest, at an estimated cost of £250,000 per annum. o In addition, there will be a wasteful duplication of resources between the Campus6 development - part funded by the Welsh Government – and the sixth forms in schools. o This duplication will inevitably influence group sizes, which, in turn, will impact the quality of education and financial viability.

Use of Public Funds

 The Cabinet Ministers for Education and for Lifelong Learning have outlined what they see for school sixth forms in the 2017/2018 Remit Letter:

147

Ref Comments

- ‘I expect you to continue to act both collectively and strategically to maximise the resources available, acknowledging the likely scenario of continued reductions in public funds over the coming years’ (page 1).

- ‘Responding to ongoing cuts in funding requires flexibility and creativity in order to react sympathetically to the future needs and demands of local communities and employers. There is a real opportunity to collaborate and share plans for future development at an early stage to avoid unnecessary competition and duplication and maximise cost efficiencies. (Page 4 of Annex 1 under Priority 4: Maintaining financial sustainability).

 Pembrokeshire College, in collaboration with Ysgol Bro Gwaun and Ysgol Dewi Sant, is developing Campus6 – a bespoke Post 16 facility for the delivery of A Levels. This development is being funded by Pembrokeshire College and the Welsh Government. Pembrokeshire College is investing £3,300,000 in this development, which will provide excellent facilities for Post 16 learning.

 To have two Post 16 A Level Centres in Haverfordwest offering almost identical A Level provision would be a duplication and excessive waste of physical, human and financial resources. It will also result in wasteful competition, which is not in the best interests of any learners.

Section 3: The Proposals do not form part of an overall strategy for the improvement of educational standards in secondary schools in Pembrokeshire

3.1 Performance at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 in Pembrokeshire is unsatisfactory. The Proposals do not address the major issues in educational standards at both levels, either in Haverfordwest, or in Pembrokeshire.

148

Ref Comments

3.3 A Steering Group has been established to confirm Governance arrangements, oversee the College’s Campus6 development and the transition arrangements for the Ysgol Bro Gwaun and Ysgol Dewi Sant pupils. Strategic and operational planning discussions are well under way in relation to staffing, curriculum, accommodation, facilities, learning support arrangements etc. All parties are working well in the spirit of full collaboration with the end aim of ensuring all learners successfully progress onto the correct Level 3 programme which suits their abilities and career aims.

3.4 The Campus6 Model provides the opportunity to create a “North Pembrokeshire” solution. A Level learners from Haverfordwest could access this facility, allowing schools to concentrate on 11-16 provision. As stated by the Cabinet Secretary in her determination of the outcome for Ysgol Bro Gwaun and Ysgol Dewi Sant, she considered that:

“… that there is no evidence to suggest that the quality and standards of 11-16 education will be less good because the school will not have a sixth form. Without a Key Stage 5, the school will be able to concentrate on raising standards in all of the other stages up to Key Stage 4”

3.5 In addition, by collaborating on timetabling, the Campus6 Model could be extended to the secondary schools in South Pembrokeshire and Post 16 pupils would have the opportunity to access some of their A Level subjects at Pembrokeshire College.

3.6 Finally, such a strategy would allow investment in vocational facilities in the South of the County. Such a strategy has the potential to increase participation, and reduce NEETS.

149

Ref Comments

4.1 With the Campus6 development the Governing Body of Pembrokeshire College is looking to the future and creating a sustainable education model which mixes vocational and academic study and will provide Pembrokeshire learners with the skills, education and successful outcomes that they need to be part of the economy and communities of Pembrokeshire and Wales.

4.2 Post Compulsory Education should be ‘Learner Focused – placing the needs of learners of all ages, gender and talent, throughout their active lives, at the centre of the educational system, enabling and facilitating changing opportunities and life circumstances over time’

(Hazelkorn 2016:13 towards 2030: A Framework for Building a World-Class Post-Compulsory Education System for Wales)

4.3 In order to achieve this, the Cabinet Ministers for Education and Lifelong Learning in their 2017/2018 Remit letter to school sixth forms, have outlined what they want sixth forms to achieve:

“Investment in Post-16 education and training is critical to improving the prospects of learners, businesses and the economy as a whole. To ensure that public funding truly helps learners to achieve what they aspire to we must ensure that every pound committed is focused efficiently to where it can deliver most effectively in order to introduce positive change and co-operation across the sector.

I appreciate my aspirations may be considered ambitious, especially in light of the economic climate. However, I stand by my belief, that by working in partnership you can rise to the challenge to achieve the best possible outcome from the resources available. It is vital that Post-16 providers continue to work both strategically and collectively to maximise the resources available, acknowledging the inevitability of continued reductions in public funding.”

(Priorities Letter to Local Authorities, December 2016)

The Campus6 Model would achieve this and would benefit all learners across Pembrokeshire.

150

Ref Comments

 fully embraced the Welsh Government’s transformation agenda. In so doing, it has fully participated in Federation arrangements for 16- 19 provision in North and South Pembrokeshire since 2001;  established a successful Work Based Learning consortium; and  developed its higher education provision through the formation of a joint venture company with Swansea University, and partnership arrangements with the University of Wales: Trinity St David.

4.6 Our sole concern in this process is the impact upon the young people in Pembrokeshire. We believe that the Campus6 Model will provide these young people with the best opportunities available; that standards will improve; that there will be equity between academic and vocational qualifications and that they will facilitate a solution in the best interests of the whole County of Pembrokeshire. 4.7 In coming to our conclusions, we have been mindful of the comments made by the Cabinet Secretary for Education when approving the age range changes in Ysgol Dewi Sant and Ysgol Bro Gwaun and the formation of the ALC (i.e. Campus6) Model.

 For Post 16 learners, the Cabinet Secretary stated that she:

 Is satisfied that the [ALC] will improve overall provision for Post 16 pupils

 Is satisfied that Post 16 students would benefit from better facilities and have access to a wider range of courses

 Is satisfied that the [ALC] will also lead to an improvement in leadership and management of Post 16 provision as the provision will focus mainly on fewer establishments

 Considers that it is reasonable to assume that the greater range of courses and larger and more viable stimulating classes… will be beneficial to Post 16 learners and would support good outcomes at Key Stage5

151

Ref Comments

 Believes that the College should be able to provide courses more cost effectively than the schools individually

 For pre-16 learners, that she:

 Considers that there is no evidence to suggest that the quality and standards of 11-16 education will less good because the school will not have a sixth form. Without a Key Stage 5, the school will be able to concentrate on raising standards in all of the other stages up to Key Stage 4

 The Proposals should ensure that funding for Pre-16 pupils of compulsory school age will not be spent on Post 16 provision

 Finally, she has concluded that:

“the more students that attend the Sixth Form Centre the more viable it will be and that for a viable Sixth Form Centre, alongside college provision, it would be necessary for at least the sixth forms at Fishguard and St Davids to unite”

4.8 We are concerned that the irrefutable conclusions of Welsh Government have been ignored.

4.9 For the many reasons stated above the Governing Body of Pembrokeshire College does not support the Proposals as outlined in the Consultation Document.

HW9 I totally agree that there should be a 11 to 19 school in Haverfordwest, however, I am totally unconvinced by your argument to close both schools and open a new school on a split site in order to attain 21 Century School Funding for Band B. I understand that the 21st Century Funding requires a ‘solid’ plan before the money for Band B is allocated but I understand that this money is to be used for infrastructure projects to improve the 152

Ref Comments

I would suggest that any split site school which exist are historic when the schools became Comprehensive and combined from existing Grammar and Secondary Modern and would not be the method of choice, in fact the split site school I taught at has since been rebuilt on one site as there were so many disadvantages.

The disdvantages are:

The school day will most probably be divided into 4 lessons with a break between each lesson to allow staff to commute between the 2 sites. The number of lessons for each pupil would be reduced from 25 to 20. Staff may have to commute every break in a day allowing no time to see pupils, other staff in the department or senior managers. This would immediately reduce the contact time teachers currently have with the pupils. I would surmise that this in turn will reduce the subject choices available at GCSE and GCE, as the pupils now have to compulsory study the Welsh Baccalaureate. The advatnages of having a new 11 to 19 school in Haverfordwest is to increase the range of subjects offered not to decrease it.

Any school briefings and staff meetings will be in separate buildings in the morning making communication much more difficult. The staff will need pigeon holes in both buildings meaning important documents may not bee seen at appropriate times, which could result in deadlines not being met. The other problem of a split site is that staff do not have a permanent teaching base so a lot of time at the beginning of the lesson is setting up, preparing resources and sollecting pupils work from a safe space.

There will be a huge cost in travel expenses as the staff will need reimbursing for commuting between the two sites for lessons, lunchtime clubs and department meetings, parents evenings etc. The split site school I worked in had a bursar to process the travel claims as well as collect monies on both sites.

153

Ref Comments

The School buses bringing pupils to school from the surrounding catchment area will have to drop off and pick up pupils from both sites in the morning and afternoon, meaning an extension to the school day for those pupils travelling. The access points to both schools will be even more chaotic than at the moment as buses will be both leaving and arriving at the site at the same time, along with staff who need to move for meetings. This could cause a major safety issue and gridlock in areas already suffering congestion in town at that time of day.

There will also be pupils who need to move safely at the end of the school day for orchestra and sport activities, whose responsibility will it be, will the school be responsible for pupils arriving at the other site for these activities? I know as a parent I would expect the school to organise the movement as it is not feasible to walk in time.

There will be a saving of one ‘Headteacher’ but to function efficiently there will need to be Head of School on both sites along with deputies. The Heads of Years will also need to have deputy Heads of Year in place so there is always someone available even if staff are in the other building. The pastoral system in a split site school is always much more difficult, a very few classes may have a tutor who happens to start every day on one site but more often the pupils will have more than one member of staff covering registration. The size of the new school should mean a better pastoral system, so that all pupils have support especially as this whole process of moving schools, changing staff, school day etc will be stressful and not having a consistent teacher as form tutor will add to the pupils stress. The addition of extra breaks for commuting could also result in subject teachers registering in the afternoon, which results in even less contact time with the tutor.

The aim of building a new 11 to 19 school is to improve standards but any interim measures of a split site school is likely to reduce standards for that intake of pupils. It is much more difficult for pupils to find staff to ask for help outside of lessons, as teachers will not be as easy to find ot on the other site at appropriate times. There will be less chance to share excellent equipment provided for GCSE or GCE pupils with pupils as they would be on the other site, or you would need duplication of equipment eg Apple mac in the Art Rooms, microscopes etc which is an additional cost, the money would surely be better spent in providing facilities in the new school.

154

Ref Comments

If a teacher has to leave promptly at the end of a lesson to commute to the other building then they cannot answer any questions pupils may have or use detention at the end of a lesson as a disciplinary tool either for talking or if a pupil has not worked sufficiently hard. The loss of this procedure then means other strategies will have to be employed which could involve other members of staff. The lunchtime will need to be increased in length from the current time again to allow for commuting.

The Special Needs Department will also need to be divided between the two sites causing any facilities, so essential for SEN pupils to be duplicated on both sites, where the resources could provide a more structured response when used on one site.

I understand that no decision has been made on how the years will be separated over the 2 sites but any split will reduce the advantage of peer mentoring. I know how many of the A level Students run clubs for the lower years as part of their Welsh Baccalaureate; this would only be possible if pupils commute.

I taught in a split school and the whole time that I taught there the whole aim of the governors and senior management team was to build one site, which they did as soon as it was financially possible. To introduce a split site has to be the very last resort even for an interim period. The pupils entering this school would be disadvantaged in my opinion. The staff would work their hardest to limit the problems but my concern is that many of the problems will not be immediately apparent. I joined a staff who had been working on a split site for a number of years and so there were startegies in place. If you are starting a split site school in September in 2018, then no SMT, Governors, staff and pupils have experienced any of the problems.

The pupils are being expected to adjust to their school closing, accepting a new school with a new name, new uniform, new staff and new ethos. This could be exciting if in September 2018, they were entering the new school on the new site. However you are asking them to start a new school, which HOPEFULLY will be built on a new site as funding still has not been allocated so there can be no current time scale in place. You are asking 155

Ref Comments

I would ask the Education Department to go back to the Welsh Government and ask is this is the only way forward as you the Education Department are committes to a 11 to 19 school in Haverfordwest along with the staff, pupils and parents. The stress you will be placing on pupils and staff during this period will affect the attainment of this cohort of pupils. The aim of everyone in the Haverfordwest Area through this process has been to improve standards, so I am committed to a new 11 to 19 school on one site in order for this to happen but I ask you to seriously think again about the interim plan of a split site school.

156

APPENDIX C

157

158

159

160