Sir William Romney's School

Inspection Report Unique Reference Number LEA Inspection number Inspection dates Reporting inspector 115779 Gloucestershire 279680 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 Peter LimmHMI

This inspection was carried out under section 5 of the Education Act 2005.

Type of school Secondary School address Lowfield Road School category Foundation Tetbury Age range of pupils 11 to 18 Gloucestershire GL8 8AE Gender of pupils Mixed Telephone number 01666 502378 Number on roll 701 Fax number 01666 505864 Appropriate authority The governing body Chair of governors Date of previous inspection 15 November 1999 Headteacher Mr Eric Dawson Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 1

Introduction The inspection was carried out by three of Her Majesty's Inspectors of schools and an additional inspector. Description of the school The school is a smaller than average comprehensive in Tetbury, which has 49 students in the sixth form. There are roughly equal numbers of girls and boys. Students are mostly White British and there are very few from other backgrounds or whose first language is not English. The percentage of students identified as having learning difficulties and disabilities, including statements, is broadly in line with the national average. There is a small number of students with physical disabilities and a small number from traveller backgrounds. Key for inspection grades Grade 1 Outstanding Grade 2 Good

Grade 3 Satisfactory

Grade 4 Inadequate Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 2

Overall effectiveness of the school The school's leadership team judges that the school is satisfactory overall. Inspectors agree and recognise that there are many good features. The school succeeded in addressing the main issues from the last inspection but it has undergone many changes since then including falling numbers, especially in the sixth form. Despite underachievement in mathematics in Key Stage 3, the school has raised overall attainment at GCSE and is now more focused on improving the quality of teaching and middle management. The school has been awarded specialist status for Performing and Visual Arts which it plans to use to drive further improvement. The new senior team has developed a number of detailed strategies that focus tightly on raising standards and achievement. However, it has not yet had enough time to implement these consistently across the school. As a result, whilst improving, the standards students achieve, the quality of teaching and learning and the effectiveness of the sixth form are currently satisfactory. Parents and students speak positively about the school but identify low level disruption in some lessons as a barrier to improving standards. The school has begun to address this and generally cares for its students effectively and enables them to develop their personal qualities well. The school is good at listening and responding to the views of students on a range of issues. The headteacher has provided strong leadership and direction in difficult circumstances, and is ably supported by the governing body. There is capacity for the school to improve, and it gives satisfactory value for money. Grade: 3

Effectiveness and efficiency of the sixth form Inspectors agree with the school that overall the sixth form is satisfactory. Students with a wide range of abilities are admitted into the sixth form but numbers overall are very small and falling, resulting in small class sizes and a reduced number of courses over recent years. The school is hoping to secure the sixth form's viability by offering more vocational courses. However, standards and progress are satisfactory overall. Students receive good guidance and support in the sixth form and teachers Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 3

• increase the proportion of good or better teaching across the school • continue to address persistent low level disruption in some lessons • ensure the sixth form is viable and is able to provide an appropriate curriculum for all learners.

Achievement and standards Inspectors agree with the school that achievement and standards are satisfactory. When students start school in Year 7 their standards are just below average. They make satisfactory progress at Key Stage 3 and the most recent results show that the school exceeded its targets for Level 5+ in English and science with lower attaining boys achieving better than in 2004. Students have underachieved in mathematics and did so in 2005 but with more students gaining Level 6+. Results for GCSE in 2005 are better than those for 2004, with both being above the national average and local education authority (LEA) targets in terms of the percentage of students gaining five A*-C grades. However, boys did less well than in 2004 and the gap between girls and boys has widened. Students with learning difficulties and disabilities make satisfactory progress and more students achieved five A*-G grades than in 2004. In the sixth form, standards are also average and progress is satisfactory. There was a significant improvement in 2005 in the pass rates for AS levels although there remain inconsistencies for different subjects at both AS and A level. Achievement on the Vocational Certificate of Education (VCE) course is consistently good, although numbers are small. Grade 3 Grade: 3 Personal development and well-being Most students enjoy coming to school feel safe and demonstrate a good awareness of right and wrong. There are good opportunities for students to reflect on ethical and social issues in assemblies and through well structured personal social and health education (PSHE) and religious education programmes. The 'President of the Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School, 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 4

sporting activities. Students have a voice and their ideas are listened to, for example the introduction of a waste paper recycling scheme and new benches for socialising. Grade 2 Grade: 2

Quality of provision Teaching and learning Inspectors agree with the school that teaching and learning are satisfactory. Most lessons seen were satisfactory, with some good but none outstanding. Some inadequate lessons were seen where teachers failed to engage students effectively, and this often generated low level disruption. Teaching is better in the main school than in the sixth form. Good lessons were seen in the main school in science, and in the sixth from in geography. Inadequate lessons were seen in mathematics, where there have been problems in recruitment of teachers. Another constraint on teaching and learning, arising from the school's size, is that a proportion of teachers have to teach two or more subjects. The school has developed appropriate systems to track students' progress, and some teachers use the information to plan lessons, but this is not consistent across the school. The teaching supports sound progress. Most students enjoy their work and have a good idea of how well they are doing via termly grades. A system of observing teaching has been implemented and there are plans to disseminate good practice. Use is also made of local Key Stage 3 consultants in planning booster lessons in Year 9. Close liaison with local primary schools is used to identify students with learning difficulties and make reasonable provision for them. Grade 3 Grade: 3

Curriculum and other activities Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 5

a satisfactory range of enrichment and after school activities. The school has been awarded the Sports Mark award and some sixth form students help local sports clubs in their coaching of younger players. Grade 3 Grade: 3 Care, guidance and support In Key Stages 3 and 4, the school has good systems in place for monitoring students' attendance and punctuality as well as their academic and personal development. Staff know the students well and every effort is made to seek their views and address their needs. Academic review days inform students of their progress and help them set challenging targets for improvement. Students speak very warmly of the support they receive at the school's Phoenix Centre. This good on-site provision enables students to develop confidence and feel secure enough to discuss their anxieties and problems with trained staff. Students new to school settle in quickly as a result of sensible induction procedures. Arrangements for dealing with incidents of bullying are clear and students feel safe in the school's generally calm atmosphere. Careers education and guidance is detailed and thorough. Its effectiveness has recently attracted the Investors Careers Award. Child Protection procedures are in place. The routines observed during an emergency evacuation were conducted in an orderly manner and clearly understood by the whole school community. Grade 2 Grade: 2

Leadership and management The school judged the effectiveness and efficiency of leadership and management as good. Inspectors agreed that the new senior team has set about achieving its task of raising standards and improving the quality of teaching energetically. However, there has been limited time for these strategies to make the required improvements Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 6

School development planning includes appropriate priorities and is supported by self-evaluation undertaken by each faculty area. An increased focus on teaching and learning has led to some formal monitoring of lessons in the main school and there is less rigorous developmental monitoring in the sixth form. This is not undertaken with consistent rigour by all faculties. There are long-standing problems in mathematics, where there is no substantive head of department, nor an appropriate scheme of work. Parental and student questionnaires are analysed carefully to evaluate the effects of policies and to inform planning. Grade 3 Grade: 3 Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School, 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 7 Annex Inspection judgements

Key to judgements: grade 1 is outstanding, grade 2 good, grade 3 satisfactory, and grade 4 inadequate School Overall 16-19 Overall effectiveness How effective, efficient and inclusive is the provision of education, integrated care and any extended services in meeting the needs of learners? How well does the school work in partnership with others to promote learners' well-being?

The ualit and standards in foundation stage NA F _Nj The effectiveness of the school's self-evaluation 3 3 The capacity to make an necessa improvements Yes Y Effective steps have been taken to promote improvement since the Yes last

Achievement and standards

How well do learners achieve? 3 3 The standards' reached by learners 3 3 How well learners make progress, taking account of any significant 3 3 variations between groups of learners How well learners with learning difficulties and disabilities make progress 3

s o Personal development and well-being How good is the overall personal development and well-being of the learners? The extent of learners' spiritual moral, social and cultural development The behaviour of learners The attendance of learners How well learners enjoy their education The extent to which learners adopt safe practices The extent to which learners adopt healthy lifestyles The extent to which learners make a positive contribution to the community - How well learners develop workplace and other skills that will contribute to their future economic well-being 2

3 2 3 2 2 2 3

The quality of provision Annex A Leadership and management How effective are leadership and management in raising achievement and supporting all learners?

How effectively leaders and managers at all levels set clear direction leading to improvement and promote high- uality of care and education How effectively performance is monitored, evaluated and improved to meet challenging targets, through quality assurance and self-review How well equality of opportunity is promoted and discrimination tackled so that all learners achieve as well as they can How effectively and efficiently resources are deployed to achieve value for money The extent to which governors and other supervisory boards discharge their responsibilities The adequacy and suitability of staff to ensure that learners are protected

The extent to which schools enable learners to be healthy Learners are encouraged and enabled to eat and drink healthily Learners are encouraged and enabled to take regular exercise Learners are discouraged from smoking and substance abuse Learners are educated about sexual health The extent to which providers ensure that learners stay safe Procedures for safeguarding learners meet current government requirements Risk assessment procedures and related staff training are in place Action. is taken to reduce anti-social behaviour, such as bullying and racism Learners are taught about key- risks and how to deal with them The extent to which learners make a positive contribution Learners are helped to develop stable, positive relationshiVs Learners, individually and collectively, _participate in making decisions that affect them Learners are encouraged to initiate, participate in and manage activities in school and the wider community The extent to which schools enable learners to achieve economic well-being There is provision to promote learners' basic skills Learners have opportunities to develop enterprise skills and work in teams Careers education and guidance is provided to all learners in key stage 3 and 4 and the sixth form Education for all learners aged 14-19 provides an understanding of employment and the economy 3 3 2 3 3 2 Yes 3 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Annex Text from letter to pupils explaining the findings of the inspection Friday, 23rd September 2005 Dear Students Following our visit to your school we would like to thank you for your contributions to the inspection and tell you of our findings. We judged that your school is satisfactory overall with areas that are good. The following points are what we found to be the key strengths and weaknesses: your headteacher gives a strong direction to the school and, with the help of his governors, has made some important changes to enable you to continue to improve your achievements and standards of work the school's award of specialist school status in the Performing and Visual Arts is already helping to bring about changes that will benefit you your achievements are improving your personal qualities develop well and you behave very sensibly and calmly you are given good guidance and support by teachers at the school and you value highly the Phoenix Centre when you need to discuss your problems or concerns. We have asked the school to make the following improvements: with the help of your senior teachers, some subjects are to be better managed and led teachers should aim to teach better lessons the poor behaviour of some students in lessons is to be tackled your sixth form should get bigger and provide more courses that you can think of studying. Yours sincerely . Peter Limm HMI Lead inspector

PRESCRIBED INFORMATION

PRESCRIBED ALTERATION REMOVAL OF A SIXTH FORM

School Name: Sir William Romney's

DfES Number: 916/5428

Local Education Authority area: Gloucestershire

Diocese (if applicable):

Proposals published by: SWR Governing Body

Date proposals published: 15 March 2006

Proposed implementation date: 01 September 2006

Note: Not all of the required information can be provided on the face of this pro forma; copies of consultation documents, list of schools, a map of the location of schools etc will also be required, as detailed within.

This information is to be regarded as in the public domain and maybe shown to interested parties without further notificatinn PLEASE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION (typewritten): that are the objectives of the proposal?

1. What are the objectives of the proposal?

a) To close the sixth form at Sir William Romney's School: no Year 12 intake into the sixth form in September 2006; current Year-12 students to complete their second year by July 2007; from September 2007 the sixth form to close completely and Sir William Romney's to become an 11-16 school. b) To ensure successful alternative placements for the thirteen Year-11 students who had selected Sir William Romney's as their first choice fo sixth form courses in September 2006. c) To put in place all necessary measures to ensure current Year-12 students are not disadvantaged in completing their Year-13 courses at Sir William Romney's in July 2007. d) To further raise the level of 11-16 education at Sir William Romney's so that local students are even better prepared to enter sixth form education at neighbouring schools and colleges thereafter. 2. PIease give details of what consultation has taken place. EVENT DATE ATTACHM NTS 1 Board minu tes - ~ Governors formal review and Mon Feb annex A decision to consult 2 Staff/Students briefed Wed 8t'' Feb

3 Letter to parents Wed 8 Feb annex B Wed 8 ' 4 Initial meeting with LA/LSC staff Feb Notes - ann x C 5 Pre-notification to interested parties Mon 13 Feb annex D

Public consultation meeting at the Thurs 23rd 6 Record - an nex E school Feb

7 Statutory notices to media and Wednesdav posted at school entrances, public annex F 15th March library and town notice boards

15th March – No responses 8 Public Consultation period (6weeks) 26th April received

Board minutes 9 Governors review or responses and 27TH Aptil extract 0 annex decisions to submit to SOC G 3. Please provide a map showing the location of the school and all other community, voluntary and foundation schools within the relevant radius of the school (two miles for primary, three for secondary). A location map can be found at annex I.

4. Please provide a list of all schools within the relevant radius of the school, stating which of such schools are maintained by a different local education authority, together with the following information in respect of each such school for the current school year, and (except for the information specified in sub-paragraph d) the previous school year: a. the admission number for each relevant age group b. the number of year groups c. the capacity of the school; and d. the number of pupils at the school and a forecast of the matters specified in sub-paragraphs b to d for each of the subsequent five school years. Please see table at annex J 5. Please provide the following information relating to the school for the current school year and (except for the information specified in paragraph c.), the previo school year: s a. the number of year groups b. the capacity of the school; and c. the number of pupils at the school and a forecast of those matters for each of the subsequent five years on the assumption that the proposals are approved. 7. Please provide details of how the curriculum at the school meets the requirements of the basic curriculum (within the meaning of section 352 of the 1996 Act) and any provision which will be in addition to the basic curriculum. The curriculum at the school meets all these requirements

8. Where the proposals relate to a voluntary school, please provide: Not Applicable

9. Please provide the following information: a. details of the number of pupils over compulsory school age in each year group remaining at the school the subject of the proposals in'the two school years before the current school year (Source: John James Number of 16 year olds remaining School year at school 2003/4 42 2004/5 45

b. details of the number of pupils over compulsory school age in each year group who have transferred from the school the subject of the proposals to another institution providing full-time or part-time education during the period referred to in sub-paragraph a. (Source: John James) School year Number of 16 year olds transferring to another institution 2003/4 43 2004/5 65 c. details of the institutions to which the pupils referred to in subparagraph b. transferred indicating how many people went to each such institution (Source: CX and LSC) d. the number of pupils referred to in sub-paragraphs a. and b. in each year group as a proportion of the total number of pupils in that year group (Source: John James) Percentag of year 11 Transferring to School year Staying at school another institution 200_3/4 32% 33% 2004/5 32% 46% e. the following details of the sixth form education currently provided: (Source: Brian Goff, SWR) i) courses leading to GCE 'A' and 'AS' examinations ii) courses leading to advanced vocational qualifications (in particular advanced GNVQs) iii) other courses, and

iv) the number of pupils attending each course Year 13 Subject Entries GCE A.Level Art 2 Biology 4 Chemist 5 Drama & Theatre.Studies 5 Economics & Business Studies 4 English Literature 4 Geography 3 German 5 History 2 Inform Comm Tech 7 Mathematics 2 Media Studies 5 Music 3 Year 12 Subject Entries GCE AS Level Art 2 Biology 1 Chemistry 2 Economics & Business Studies 1 English Literature 6 General Studies 6 Geography 1 German 2 History 4 Inform Comm Tech 5 Mathematics 5 Media Studies 4 Music 3 Physics 2 Psychology 8 Other Courses Leis&Recretion (GNVQ 5 It dit) f. details of the schools or further education colleges to which it is proposed that pupils currently receiving sixth form education may transfer if the proposals are approved, and any transitional arrangements which may apply; (Source: Paul King) The proposed last year of entry to Year 12 of the sixth form was Sept 2005. Current sixth form students will complete their programmes at Sir William Romney's school. There will therefore be no transfer of students currently receiving educati n at Sir William Romney's school. g. details of the following examination results for the two school years before the current school year at the school which is the subject of th proposals and at each maintained school, city technology college, ci y technology for the arts, city academy and institution within the furthe education sector named pursuant to sub-paragraph (c): (source: Peak Yuk Lee) 99. an assessment of the quality of each maintained school, city technology college, city college for the technology of the arts, city academy and further education college named in accordance with sub-paragraph (f), including details of the examination results referred to in sub-paragraph (g); NIA the proposal does not require existing sixth form pupils to transfer to alternative schools/colleges. h. the number of places available at those institutions named in accordance with sub-paragraphs (c) or (f) which are schools; and (source: Paul King) Forecast Pupil Spare Places School Capacity Roll Set 06 Available Marlin 779 859 -80 Stroud High 828 892 -64 i, details of the distance, measured by the nearest available route, between the school and each of the institutions named in accordance with sub-paragraph (c) or (f) together with details as to the availability of public transport to the institutions named in accordance with subparagraph (f) (where such information is not already included in any proposed arrangements for transport contained in the published proposals). (source: Rebekah Thorne, Admissions) Distance in miles Marlin 10.56 Stroud High 10.82 Cirencester College 9.52 City of Bristol College 27.62 Filton College 24.83 GLOSCAT 19.78 Hart ur Coile e 24.07 Norton Radstock College 33.46 Stroud College 11.09 Worcester College of Technology 50.77

10. Where the implementation of the proposals will involve development for the Annex: A. SWR Board Minutes 6th February 2006 B. Letter to Parents 8th February 2006 SWR C. SWR/LA/LSC Meeting Notes 8th February 2006 D. Pre-Notification Letter to Interested Parties 13th February 2006 E. Public Meeting Record 23rd February 2006 F. Statutory Notice 15th March 2006 G. SWR Bord Minutes 11th May 2006 H. Letter from Sixth Form Student 25th February 2006 & SWR Reply 9th March 2006 I. Location Map

J. School Capacity, Admission Number and Pupil Details K. Ofsted Report September 2005 L. Examination Results

Prescribed Information Sir William

Romney's School

Supplementary Information

Concerning Capital investment required to implement the proposals. No capital funding is required to implement these proposals.

SIR WILLIAM ROMNEY'S SCHOOL MINUTES OF THE EXTRAORDINARY MEETING OF THE BOAR GOVERNORS HELD ON MONDAY 6TH FEBRUARY 2006 AT 7.30 D OF PM Present: Mr M Barnes, Mr E Dawson, Mrs E Diaz, Mr D Godwin, Mr D Nash, Mrs S Thomas, Mr J Green, Dr A Ellin, Mr P Holness, Mr B Cook, Mr S Keitley, Mr M Wallin ton, Mr P Powell, Mrs L Whalley, Mrs S Perrett (8.15pm), Mr D Curtis, Ms N Davi s, Mr S Chilcott Absent: Mr S Hirst

In Attendance: Mr B Goff (Clerk), Mrs C Berry (Hd of Sixth), Mrs J Green (Minutes Secret #y)

1. Introduction. Mr Barnes thanked Governors for attending the meeting, and introduced the Senior Leadership Team and Mrs Berry, Head of Sixth Form. He explained that background papers and a raft discussion format had been pre-circulated to assist with the structure of the meeting, which was wholly to discuss the future of the Sixth Form at Sir William Romney's School in its present form. 2. Background Mr Dawson outlined sixth form developments during his 11 years as head teacher. In the early years numbers had grown steadily, peaking at 110. However, changes to the post-16 curricula in 2000 significantly increased the number of subjects every school was required to offer, and also made it difficult to 'double-up' Year 12 and Year 13 subjects in most subject. Inevitably this had a significant effect on the overall cost effectiveness of the Sixth Form.

Then, despite being successfully averted, the threat of closure in 2004 resulting from the LEA/LSC county-wide review of post-16 provision had a major impact on numbers applying to enter SWR's ixth Form in 2005. Student performances had remained good throughout this time, and the school as a hole remain Mr Dawson and his senior leadership team were increasingly concerned that the small numbers of s dents could no longer be provided with the sixth form experience they deserved, and felt the time had no come for Sir William Romney's to regroup and refocus as an 11-16 school. T 3. Present Situation

Option 1. Despite all the efforts in recent months focused on Yr-11 students, by Governors as well as staff, 'it was now clear that there is no prospect of achieving the 40 intake that the Board had previously agreed would be the minimum number required to continue. Governors voiced their sadness and disappointment, but agreed unanimously that continuing the sixth form in its present form at SWR as no longer It was agreed that Options 2-4 should be discussed as a whole before deciding which to put to a vot~. Option 2. Mr Dawson felt that the educational experience of Option 2 was not in the best interests f the studen difficulties of a curriculum structure to accommodate such a small nurriWbf students. After lengthy discussion, the Governors unanimously agreed that Option 2 should alto be excluded as a possibility.

Option 3 and 4. Dr Ellin believed there was a moral obligation to continue to prop ae an education for those students already within the Sixth Form, which others agreed. Mr Dawsori pointed out that the best interests of the 14 students; currently in Yr-12 would be better served by relocating them for Yr-13 courses with other providers, because such a small number could not be provided with the proper sixth fo experience here. Mrs Berry raised a concern that many of these students would simply drop out of post-16 courses if there were attempts to relocate them. A further factor raised was that, paradoxic schools' budget situation would be better if the sixth form continued into 2007 rather than closing i Governors noted this, but unanimously agreed that the interests of the children was the primary con regardless of the budget implications. heir lly, the 2006. em

Following detailed discussion the consensus view that emerged was that it would be better to run a Yr-13 sixth form in 2006-07 (Option 3) rather than close altogether in 2006 (option 4) and risk losi current Yr-12 students from post-16 education altogether,' This would involve additional

effort and expenditure to ensure the best possible provision for the small Yr-13 in their. final year. Mr Barnes undertook to seek support for this from the LA and theiLSC. After final discussion, Mr Keitley proposed and Mr~Wallington seconded Option 3: close in July 2 no Yr 12 intake this year; current Yr 12 completes in 2007. To ensure total Board agreement, this to privately written vote. The decision in favour d Option 3 was unanimous. 5. Decision to Consult The Statutory Process requires a Governing Body to consult air-a proposal to close a sixth form. T formal Decision to Consult was proposed by Mr Cook, seconded by Dr Ellin and agiu,d uiia:2mou individual students/families and negotiate with neighbouring post-16 providers, seeking LA/L C support where required. t The meeting also noted that the families concerned will also now face additional unexpected trans ort costs. Mr Barnes undertook to seek special support for this at the LA/LSC at the meeting on 8th Ftruary. 8. Budget Implications Mr Cook circulated a draft budget statement based on Option 3. Because of recent changes to the post-16 Minimum Funding Guarantee, the budget picture was not as bad as previously expected. However, this temporary `windfall' masks an underlying programme of cuts over the past two years across all school areas necessary to balance the decline in sixth numbers, and also further budget pressures from 20 7-08 and onwards when the sixth form closes. Mr Barnes will take this up at a meeting with the LA/LS due to be he 9. Staffing Reductions Mr Goff circulated a staffing reduction paper for September 2006 and September 2007. It should e noted that the figures also include the reduction required to take Year 11 from 5 tutors groups to 4 in September 2006. The minimum staffing reduction over the two years would be 8.9545. Mr Dawson stated that there were several members of staff on temporary contracts ending in August 2006 and also commitments to honour from last year (retirement of former Deputy Headteacher). However, there were also key p sts, such as Head of Mathematics, that needed to be filled. The reductions must be achieved through the formal curriculum review process undertaken by a St ffing Committee. Mr Barnes and Mr Goff will prepare a timetable (coordinated with the Statutory Proce s timetable) for this in the next few days and circulate to all Governors. The first meeting of the Sta mg Committee would take place Thursday 9th February 2006 in place of the Personnel Committee scheduled for that date.

10. Transport Issue for Future Post-16 Students Governors also noted that the removal of a sixth form at SWR will impose a significant transport p nalty on local students seeking post-16 education in the future, because of the rural nature of this commu ity. Mr Barnes undertook to pursue this matter at the meeting with the LA/LSC on 8th February. 11. Future Priorities for Sir William Romney's as an 11-16 School The meeting was unanimous on the need to focus now on Sir William Romney's continuing su cess as an 11-16 provider. This will involve further developing SWR's links with neighbouring sixth form preparation of letters to parents and media releases. Members of SLT would make personal contac with the parents of those students who had applied on Wednesday 8ch February. Mr Dawson explained that confidentiality was vital as any leak at this stage would be very damagi g to the school.

13. Governor Comments

Mr Barnes invited Governors' general comments: • Mr Holness stated that it was a very sad evening, but congratulated everyone on a magnificent ffort. The battle had been won, but the war lost. • Mr Green said that he was astonished that it had come to this and was reeling from the shock. ~t was now time to commit to ensuring that SWR becomes a very good 11-16 school - look forward. • Mr Cook stated that he was very disappointed that it had come to this, but as always the Gove ors were actin • Mrs Whalley suggested that links with primary schools (especially Nailsworth) be strengthened to ensure a good flow on students into Yr-7 for the future. • Mr Dawson commented that the Governors and School had come a long way and that the decision that had been made was no disgrace; in fact it was made with lots of honour. It would have been ea y to go on, allowing things to get worse, but, as always, the best interests of the student were at the hea of everything. Hard decision, sad decision, but right decision. Sir William Romney's can and will work very well as an 11-16 school. • Mr Barnes stated that the Board of Governors had been rated very highly by LEA trainers, and plain to see why. The last two years have been a most difficult, but it had been good to be amo such a positive Governing Body. The focus now must be building on SWR's record of success 11-16 school. it was igst as an 14. Mr Cook thanked Mr Barnes, Mr Dawson and the SLT for the time, effort and energy they hav throughout this difficult issue. e given

With all business being complete, the meeting closed at 9.20pm

8th February 2006 Head/Parlett/j ac

Dear Parent/Guardian, With great regret, I write to inform you that, at an Extraordinary Board Meeting on Monday 6th February 2006, the Governors concluded that there is now no prospect of continuing with Sixth Form education in its present form at Sir William Romney's beyond 2007. The reason, quite simply, is that the school has been unable to recruit sufficient numbers of students to make up the group sizes necessary for teaching and learning at sixth form level. The Governors have therefore agreed to invoke the statutory consultation procedures leading to closure.

Before continuing further, I should stress that - whatever the outcome of the statutory process - current Year 12 students on two-year courses will not be affected; they will complete their Year 13 courses as planned until July 2007. But if closure is agreed, which we now believe is inevitable, there will be no Year 12 intake in September this year. I must also stress that our absolute priority in the next few months will be to ensure that alternative placements are found for those Year 11 students who currently have selected SWR as their first choice for sixth form courses. We are already working on this with the Local Authority and the Learning and Skills Council, and will contact those parents affected individually in the next few days. I would add that we also intend to press for support with transport costs in cases where this may also be a particular issue. Needless to say, this development is a great disappointment for the whole school, particularly after the battle to save our sixth form following the closure threat in 2003-04. However, we can no longer avoid the fact that our small size does not allow us to compete with those around us. Indeed the educational benefits (range of courses and facilities) offered by these establishments clearly make them a more attractive option for our students, and at the end of the day they are our primary concern. Can I also emphasise that this is not the last word on post-16 education at Sir William Romney's. There is every possibility of some form of post-16 specialist courses being developed with other providers. We shall of course keep you updated on these.

Sixth Form at Sir William Romney's School Notes of SWR/LA/LSC Meeting 8th February 2006 at the School Attendance:

S WR: Head Teacher - Eric Dawson Chair of Governors - Mike Barnes Chair of Finance - Brian Cook Business Manager - Brian Goff

LA: Head of School Improvement - Alan Stubbersfield Head of Finance - Shane Blackshaw LSC: Head of Review & Planning - Janet Rice 1. Decision to Close. SWR confirmed Governors' 6th February decision for Option 3 - to sixth form by July 2007 as follows: • No Yr 12 intake in September 2006

• Current Yr 12 to progress to Yr-13 and complete in 2007

• SWR to become an 11-16 school from September 2007 close the 2. Statutory process and timetable. I Revisions to draft statutory process timetable discussed and agreed - revise to be circulated agreement. (MB) • SWR to arrange public consultation meeting 23'd February (ED)

• LA will advise contact list for consultation process (AS)

• LA will assist with preparation of Statutory Notice Is'-7h March (AS)

• LA will assist with preparation of Notice to SOC - 24th-28th April (AS) for final 3. Alternative placement support for displaced current Yr 11 students.

• SWR to liaise with alternative local provides to place Yr-11 students affected (ED); SC will lend • LA will investigate transport support for displaced students (AS) 4. Transport support for future displaced students. LA will consider ongoing transport requirements for local post-16 students (AS) upport 5. Initial school/parents/public notification. Media Statement and copies of letters to pare unions noted and agreed [its/ 6. Budget issues, including staff adjustments.

PRELIMINARY NOTICE

PROPOSAL TO CLOSE THE SIXTH FORM AT SIR WILLIAM ROMNEY'S SCHOOL

At an Extraordinary Meeting of the Governing Body on 6`l February 2006 the Governors of Sir William Romney's School reluctantly concluded that sixth form provision at the school is no longer sustainable. The reason is that the school has been unable to recruit sufficient numbers of students into the sixth form to make up subject group sizes necessary for teaching and learning at post-16 level. The current sixth form this year has fallen below 50 (the County guideline is 150 minimum); and only 13 firm applications have been received for next September by the cut-off date necessary to ensure alternative placements. Proposed closure will take place in two stages: in September 2006 there will be no student intake into Year 12, and the sixth form will reduce to the present Year 12 students completing their Year 13 courses in July 2007; then from September 2007 when the Year 13 students have left, the sixth form will close altogether and Sir William Romney's will become an 11-16 school. The Governors further agreed that an immediate priority will be to ensure successful alternative placements for the 13 Year 11 students who currently have selected SWR as their first choice for sixth form courses in September 2006. The Headteacher is arranging meetings with individual students and their families, and is negotiating on their behalf with neighbouring post-16 providers. The Local Authority is assisting with this. This proposed closure comes after 2 years of review and debate following proposals by the Local Authority and the Learning & Skills Council to close Sir William Romney's Sixth Form in 2004. As both agencies have been extensively involved throughout, objections are not anticipated from either body during the Statutory Process that will now follow. This process must be completed by 31 May 2006 to permit the necessary changes to be implemented from 31 August 2006. This includes:

13 February 2006 Preliminary notification to interested parties (this letter) 23 February 2006 Initial Public Consultation meeting at 7.30 pm at the school The Governors would welcome any comments in response to this Notice, by 7th March 2006 please, and lso any representations at the Public Meeting at the school at 7.30 pm on Thursday 23`d February h 2006. These Will be considered at the Governing Board meeting on 8` March. If the decision then is to proceed with a Statutory Closure Notice, the Governors would also welcome comments or representations during the formal consultation period ending l Od` May 2006. All communications should be addressed to Clerk to the Governors, Sir William Romney's School, Low$eld Road, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8AE Sir William Romney's has a long tradition as a successful 11-18 school, and the Governors would like to record their great regret at this development. However, we have to accept that today's more mobile students are increasingly attracted by the excellent facilities and diversity of courses available at the larger post-16 colleges around us. Local students will undoubtedly benefit from the enhanced sixth form experience these establishments can offer, and we therefore intend to focus our efforts on further enhancing 11-16 teaching and learning at Sir William Romney's so that our students are as well prepared as they can possibly be to pro ess to post-16 education elsewhere.

Signed: B Goff, Clerk to Governors 13th February 2006 Distribution:

Mrs J Grills, Director of Education, Gloucestershire County Council Mr B Wolfson, Director of Dept of Children & Education, Wiltshire County Council Mrs S Clutterbuck, Schools Organisation Committee Mrs P Bailey, Executive Director, Learning & Skills Council Gloucestershire Mr G Clifton- Brown MP Mr D Drew MP

Cllr Mr S Hirst, Mayor of Tetbury, Tetbury Town Council

Cllr Mrs S Reed, Mayor of Nailsworth, Nailsworth Town Council The Chief Executive, Cotswold District Council The Chief Executive, Stroud District Council

Mr P Metcalf, Diocesan Director of Education, Church of England Diocesan Mr K Brown, Secondary Advisor, The Hucclecote Centre Mr N Robbins, Principal, Cirencester College The Principal, Stroud College Mrs A Mills, Head of Downfield Sixth Form Mr C Steer, Headteacher, Thomas Keble School Mrs J Winwood, The Headteacher, Stroud High School Mr D Alexander, Headteacher, Rednock School Mr R Lock, Headteacher, Marling School

Mr A Harris, Headteacher, Katharine Lady Berkeley's School Mrs A Stokes, Headteacher, Farmors School Miss C Oates, Headteacher, Cirencester Kingshill School Ms C Henson, Head-teacher, Cirencester Deer Park School Mrs K Harwood, Headteacher, Archway School Mr M Trobe, Headteacher, Malmesbury School

Mrs M Henderson' Headmistress, Westonbirt School

Mr S Etherington, Headteacher, St Marys C of E Primary School Mr C Raymond, Headteacher, Nailsworth C of E Primary School Mr R Harris, Headteacher, Minchinhampton Primary School Ms D Boulton, Headteacher, Avening Primary School Mr M Fry, Headteacher, Horsley C of E Primary School Mrs S Pillinger, Headteacher, Rodmarton Primary School Mrs J Kiss, Headteacher, Leighterton Primary School Mrs J Woolley, Headteacher, Amberley Primary School Mrs M Smith, Headteacher, St Dominics Catholic Primary School

Mrs P Needham, Headteacher, Woodchester Endowed C of E Primary School Mr D Whyte, Headteacher, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School Mrs S Smith, Editor, Stroud News & Journal

SIR WILLIAM ROMNEY'S SCHOOL - PROPOSED CLOSURE OF 6TH FORM

NOTES OF A PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETING HELD AT THE SCHOOL THURSDAY 23rd FEBRUARY 20061.

Attendees Kevin Painter Tetbu Town Council Robert Dunson Parent Stephen Keitle Governor & Parent Stuart Truman Parent K Neilsen Parent Sue Doid e Staff/member of unit GSandenClarke Parent Jac ui Green Parent/staff Pebble Sand en Student Jon Green Governor Russell Cleary Cotswold Resident Cllr Stephen Hirst Tetb Town Fiona Ellin Parent of Y11 pupil Peter Powell Governor Alex Ellin Parent Governor Dale Curtis Assistant Head Mark Wallin ton Parent Governor B Goff Clerk to Sue Cook Scri Pauline Bailey Director Glos LSC Brian Cook Governor Eric Dawson Headteacher Caroline Barber Parent Mike Barnes Chair of Sue Thomas Staff Governor Bob Austin Independent Chair Christine Be SWR Head of Sixth Form

Mr Austin, Chief Executive of Cotswold District Council, introduced himself as independent hair of the m Mrs Bailey, Director Gloucestershire Learning Skills Counc 1, was also present. He explained that that the meeting was the first stage of the statutory consul tion process following the Governors' recent proposals to close the 6th Form, and that a number of r formal sta as outlined in their pre-notification letter dated 13th February 2006 (copy attached). Before summarising the events that had led Governors to make their current proposals for clost Mr Barnes emphasised that the immediate priority for the school was assisting the 13 current y 11 students who had elected to join SVVR's sixth form in September 2006 to find alternative placements. School staff had contacted their parents, and were working with the LSC and neighbouring providers to ensure suitable places are found re,

The Governors believed that this reduction was almost entirely due to the closure threat. Ma efforts were therefore mounted to enhance sixth form facilities, to broaden curriculum offer t increased collaboration with neighbouring providers, and to ensure year 11 students and thei families were fully aware of the strengths of SWR's sixth form environment. An intake targ for September 2006 was established as the minimum required to continue sixth form provisi the future, and a deadline of 6th February 2006 agreed for meeting this target. In the event, only 13 students applied to join SWR's 6th Form by the 6th February deadline. others chose Cirencester College, where more than 50 subjects and marvellous facilities are o offer. The Governors recognised that even in the past 2 years local students had become mor mobile, and wished to cast their net wider. They therefore reluctantly accepted that it was no the best interests of the school and our local students to close the sixth form here, and to cone on making SWR an even better 11-16 institution. Mr Barnes expressed concern for local students who might not find it so easy to travel at odd of the day to Cirencester or other distant providers. He confirmed that the Governors had alr met with the Local Authority to seek support for these students, and also for other local stude who will be similarly affected in the future. Finally, Mr Barnes acknowledged that closure of the 6th Form would have a wider implicatio Inevitably there would need to be corresponding staff cuts involving redundancies. Access to 11-18 school is a significant factor to families considering moving into the area, so local hous markets could be affected. Existing families may also prefer to start their children at an 11-18 school, which could further contribute to falling year-7 intakes due to the demographic down affecting all schools. Hence SWR will need to work hard to attract maximum numbers of stu from local primary schools. He emphasised that the Governors are committed to tackling thes challenges so that SWR can build on its long tradition as a successful local school. Mr Dawson added that, if the proposal for SWR to become an 11-16 school goes through, Pos education here may not be gone for ever. Talks are taking place with other providers in the ar about how we could run courses here on their behalf. This is something for the future, and a positive response has come from all local institutions. He emphasised that SWR can be highl successful as an 11-16 school.

QUESTIONS Parent Concerned at the low attendance at the meeting and asked how many present w parents. A show of hands totalled 11 parents present. Mrs Ellin Mr Barnes Mr Dawson Mother of Y11 and Y9 students with another child in Y6 looking for Second school. The LSC have closed the school as they originally intended. There is transport problem and there is lack of choice. Parents have not attended becau they are despondent and feel that it is a "fait accompli". There will be difficul for students getting to other establishments when the driving test age is increas 18. There are problems getting places elsewhere for Yl 1 students as there has lack of replies to telephone calls made to 6th form colleges.

SWR is trying to support parents with finding places. All the Principals and H of the establishments around us are looking favourably on our students. If ther difficulties please pass this on the Mr Dawson to help resolve. Anxiety is the part and we need to get students settled as soon as possible. Regarding transport, of the 135 students in Y11 only 13 committed to SVWR, therefore 120 are able to deal with transport. Mr Keitley Not necessarily a fair statement. Due to uncertainly about SWR's 6t Form, p~ felt they had to look elsewhere. Can the school assist in getting the LEA to pro transport? ents ide Mr Dawson Mrs Bailey, Recognised that this is a sad and difficult time for the school. The focus must n w

LSC `be on making the 11-16 school part of the school even better, and working with ~he As a result of removing 6 Form provision from SWR the cost implication is actually more favourable. At the moment if a course is offered here students c get a subsidy to study it elsewhere. If there is no 6th Form here they will be help transport costs, so from September families could be better off financially. At a recent meeting the LEA were made aware of problems with transport and looking at the possibility of providing taxies from outlying areas to Tetbury so t students at catch the services buses to 6th Form colleges. The LEA and LSC ha resolve this issue for September 2006 if closure of 6t form is agreed.

Teaching morale: only a small number of staff work only with 6th Form. It is difficult to gauge morale. Staff must consider their own careers. There is a cert amount of relief that a decision has been made because their were concerns whe there would be sufficient numbers to teach. A hallmark of SWR is the strong se of caring among teachers. Teachers will continue to do their best for students.

Mr Keitley Has 2 children in Yl 1 and wanted them to join SWR 6th Form. The problem i that there is not the choice of subjects at SWR which are offered at other colleges. To students it is the "wow" factor when they see the wonderful facilities at some here like Cirencester College. Tetbury simply cannot offer what Cirencester can. The children wanted to come here in Y7, but SWR can no longer compete with the 6th form provision on offer at the larger colleges. Mr Ellin Inevitably students started to look elsewhere when closure was threatened 2 years ago. The closure threat itself had a major effect. Parent Attended the public meetings 2 years ago. Had particular concerns regarding transport and chose to go to Malmesbury. Cirencester college has been given oney to cope with numbers. m Is there some way we could go back and make the students want to come back here? Mr Barnes Head of 6tn Form and Assistant Head with responsibility for 14-19 education ar present. They have spent a lot of time trying to find out why students are not choosing SWR and can best answer that. Mrs Berry Head ofd Form - Throughout the year we have asked Y.11 students on 4 occa ions in different ways how they felt about SWR 6th Form. After the 6th Form Experience Day they wanted to come to SWR. Then they went to other establishments Op n Days and found that there was a lot more choice of subjects and better facilities (new buildings, etc.). Many were attracted by the excellent facilities, and wanted to e part of a larger organisation. Mr Curtis Have worked with 6th Form for more than 15 years and cannot think of a year oup that we have worked with more intensively. We have taken every opportunity t find out why they do not want to come to SWR 6th Form. Aspirations are chan ing and they want different things. We simply do not have the money or the faciliti s here to meet those aspirations. Mr Ellin 16-18 funding is a priority and there should be no shortage of places within coll ges. Economies of scale apply to colleges. Parent Thanks to Mr Dawson, teachers and governors. They have done their very best and could not have done more. Education of the students has always been more important that finance. We hove always looked at the best interest of the student and the best way of teaching students.

Mr Keitley There are no plans for new construction work in this area, which means intake numbers will continue to drop. We are a sparsely populated area. Have discus taken place with the LEA? Will the school as an 11-16 establishment become viable due to low numbers? n sions on Mr Dawson Discussions are taking place with the LEA through "Area Reviews". They are looking at falling roles in primary schools. Area reviews will then look at wha happens when those children move forward into secondary schools. There ma be a re-arrangement of catchment areas. We are not trying to remove provision, jus to make sense of what is there. Mr Hirst We are moving to centralised services and rural communities are dying. We ar the top of a downward spiral as we can't build new houses, etc.

Mr Barnes We have just touched on one of the biggest problems for rural areas, which des rves a separate, community strategy meeting. No town can stay static - either grow r decline. Cirencester/Gloucester/Cheltenham conurbations are continuing to de elop as part of the county development plan - but not the rural areas. Tetbury must ig its heels in to stop the decline, and come up with bold ideas for new development. We are already looking at lowest numbers in the school ever. The whole communit must work on reversing this trend. Dr Ellin Lots of people would like to come to SWR but they live out of the catchment ara. Bus fares are too expensive. The colleges subsidise bus fares, but SWR does n have the funds to do so. Guardian of Stroud student Parent Have been very impressed with SWR and wanted 6t form provision at this establishment. This is a very good school. Sad to see what has happened over last week or so and thought it was a "done deal". That's why not many parents here. Don't want to go away thinking this is the end of the story. If you don't h a 6th form you will not get so many parents wanting children to come here in Y7

Concerned at lack of communication as a Y11 parent. How many people were i 6th form last year. It must have been known how many children were required f~r ,I__ cth o--- .._ L_ •rL.- __.,... .-_-.. 1 - - Mr Austin This is a sad time for the school. Y11 student don't know what the teaching i going to be like in another establishment, but inevitably will be attracted by good fa ilities - and volume breeds money. Some college courses are also heavily subsidise by their adult education/football academy courses, etc. Demographic situation is a potential threat. Current trends project a 54% red ction in 5-16 years old. Nationally we have 1.7 children per family (reduced from .4) No Greenfield sites will be developed in this area until after 2011. Only bro -field sites can be developed. Housing development will not happen in Tetbury. In the last 15 years SWR has improved against all the odds. The problem no is numbers of children in the area reducing. It is very important to Tetbury to ha e this school, and to have a 6th form. But we have to make realistic, achievable plan for the future. SWR is a credit to Tetbury. We have to look at what is best for the majority of pupils, and that must come first.

Mr Keitley Concerned about issues just raised and the future of rural communities. Mr Austin We suffer because of our geographic position at the top end of the South West Region. Central Govt policies don't help rural areas. We must make it known that we do not want to live in a "Saga theme park". There is only one brown-field ite in Tetbury for development. Mr Barnes Tetbury will need to fight to preserve community interests. We will only ensur local development and building programmes through concerted action to the restrictions in current national/regional plans. Mr Keitley Parents with students here now will have concerns over the morale of teachers, and will want to know how this is to be maintained. Mr Dawson The loyalty and morale of staff that has always been a hallmark of SWR is a m 'or priority in this difficult issue, and seems to be holding up. We will continue do all in our power to make sure morale remains high. The quality of education in SWR makes the decision to close the 6th form a mor bitter pill to swallow. The aim now is to make the school even better in the ne format. PRELIMINARY NOTICE

PROPOSAL TO CLOSE THE SIXTH FORM AT SIR WILLIAM ROMNEY'S SCHOOL

At an Extraordinary Meeting of the Governing Body on 6`h February 2006 the Governors of Sir Willi m Romney's School reluctantly concluded that sixth form provision at the school is no longer sustainabl . The reason is that the school has been unable to recruit sufficient numbers of students into the sixth form t make up subject group sizes necessary for teaching and learning at post-16 level. The current sixth form thi year has fallen below 50 (the County guideline is 150 minimum); and only 13 firm applications have been received for next September by the cut-off date necessary to ensure alternative placements. Proposed closure will take place in two stages: in September 2006 there will be no student intake into Year 12, and the sixth form will reduce to the present Year 12 students completing their Year 13 courses in my 2007; then from September 2007 when the Year 13 students have left, the sixth form will close altoge her and Sir William Romney's will become an 11-16 school. The Governors further agreed that an immediate priority will be to ensure successful alternative place ents for the 13 Year 11 students who currently have selected SWR as their first choice for sixth form cours s in September 2006. The Headteacher is arranging meetings with individual students and their families, d is negotiati This proposed closure comes after 2 years of review and debate following proposals by the Local Lt ority and the Learning & Skills Council to close Sir William Romney's Sixth Form in 2004. As both agenc'es have been extensively involved throughout, objections are not anticipated from either body during the Statutory Process that will now follow. This process must be completed by 31 May 2006 to permit the necessary changes to be implemented from 31 August 2006. This includes: 13 February 2006 Preliminary notification to interested parties (this letter)

23 February 2006 Initial Public Consultation meeting at 7.30 pin at the school

8 March 2006 Governing Board meeting to consider responses and decide whether or not to proceed with a Statutory Closure Notice 15 March 2006 Statutory Closure Notice published (local newspapers and notice boards) 15 March-10 May Statutory period for public consultation 11 May 2006 Governing Board meeting to consider responses and decide whether or not to submit a formal closure proposal to Sir William Romney's has along tradition as a successful 11-18 school, and the Governors would li record their great regret at this development. However, we have to accept that today's more mobile are increasingly attracted by the excellent facilities and diversity of courses available at the larger po colleges around us. Local students will undoubtedly benefit from the enhanced sixth form experien establishments can offer, and we therefore intend to focus our efforts on further enhancing 11-16 tea and learning at Sir William Romney's so that our students are as well prepared as they can possibly progress to post-16 education elsewhere. e to tudents t-16 e these hing e to

Signed: B Goff, Clerk to Governors 13th February 2006 Distribution:

Mrs J Grills, Director of Education, Gloucestershire County Council

Mr B Wolfson, Director of Dept of Children & Education, Wiltshire County Council Mrs S Clutterbuck, Schools Organisation Committee Mrs P Bailey, Executive Director, Learning & Skills Council Gloucestershire Mr G Clifton- Brown MP Mr D Drew MP

Cllr Mr S Hirst, Mayor of Tetbury, Tetbury Town Council

Cllr Mrs S Reed, Mayor of Nailsworth, Nailsworth Town Council The Chief Executive, Cotswold District Council The Chief Executive, Stroud District Council

Mr A Harris, Headteacher, Katharine Lady Berkeley's School Mrs A Stokes, Headteacher, Farmors School Miss C Oates, Headteacher, Cirencester Kingshill School Ms C Henson, Headteacher, Cirencester Deer Park School Mrs K Harwood, Headteacher, Archway School Mr M Trobe, Headteacher, Malmesbury School

Mrs M Henderson, Headmistress, Westonbirt School

Mr 9 Etherington_ Headteacher. St Marvs C of E Primarv School

1610

Sir William Romney's School Closure of Sixth Form

Notice is hereby given in accordance with section 28(2) of the School Standards an Framework Act 1998 that the Governing Body of Sir William Romney's School inten to make a p education from 31St August 2007. The current age range of the school is 11 years to 18 years. The proposed age range will be 11 years to 16 years. It is proposed that there will be no admission to the sixth form at Year-12 in Septemb r 2006. Current Year-12 pupils will be able to continue their courses of study at the s hoot until July 2007. Alternative courses for potential students affected by the closure of t e school's sixth form are available at Cirencester College, Katharine Lady Berkeley's S hool and Stroud College, and other post-16 schools and colleges in the area. The number of pupils to be admitted to the school at age 11 from 1St September 200 and subseq Transport will continue to be provided for students who qualify in accordance with the Local Authority's published policy. There is adequate capacity to accommodate these students at the alternative named providers. Explanatory Notes 1. A review of sixth form provision in Gloucestershire in 2003 conducted by th Co unty Council and Learning and Skills Council resulted, inter alia, in a proposal to close the sixth form at Sir William Romney's. A preliminary notice was published followed by full statutory local consultation, which in 2004 resulted in a decision not t proceed to publication of final proposals. 2. The Governing Body continued to closely monitor and review sixth form pro ision, but it has now become clear that the school is no longer able to recruit suffi ient numbers of students into the sixth form to make up subject group sizes nec ssary for teaching and learning at post-16 level. The Governing Body has therefor concluded that it is in the best interests of local students to close the sixth fo m at Sir William Romney's and focus on further enhancing the school's performa ce as an 11-16 provider. Pre-statutory consultation on this proposal has taken pla e as prescribed, and the Governors have now agreed to proceed to the issue of t is statutory notice. 3. The current number of students attending the sixth form is 45, made up of 1 Y ear12 students and 27 Year-13 students. 14 Year-12 students are expected to progress into Year-13 in September 2006. Only 13 firm applications have b en received for entry to Year-12 for September 2006. This would result in a total sixth form of 27 (the County guideline is 150 minimum). 4. The objective will be to ensure that students from SWR have access to high

uality post-16 provision offering a wide curriculum choice at neighbouring post-16 s hoots and colleges. Students from the school's catchment area already attend a,, t: native providers at Cirencester College, Katharine Lady Berkeley's School, Stroud College, and other post-16 establishments. 5. The Governors' priorities if the proposal is approved will be: putting in place all necessary measures to ensure current Year-12 students are not disadvantaged in their Year-13 courses ensuring successful alternative placements for the 13 Year-11 student who currently have selected SWR as their first choice for sixth form courses in September 2006. The Head Teacher is arranging meetings with indivi ual students and their families, and is negotiating on their behalf with neighbouring host-16 providers_ The Lnrnl Al lthnrifii pro

ANNe7~

Extract From SWR Board Meeting Minutes 27th April 2006

Item 3. Proposed Closure of SWR's Sixth Form. Following the Board meeting on 8th March 2006 when Governors considered responses to he Pre-Notification letter informing interested parties of the proposal to close the sixth form a SWR, including responses at the public meeting held at the school on 23rd February 2006, a Statu ory Notice proposing closure was published on 15th March 2006 for public consultation. The oard noted that the six weeks period for responses to this Notice expired on 26th April 2006, an that no further responses have been received. The Board agreed unanimously to proceed with a formal submission to The Gloucestershire Schools Organisation Committee (SOC): a) To close the sixth form at Sir William Romney's School: no Year 12 intake into th sixth form in September 2006; current Year-12 students to complete their second year in my 2007; from September 2007 the sixth form to close completely and Sir William Ro ey's

to become an 11-16 school.

7 b) To ensure successful alternative placements for the thirteen Year-11 students who h selected Sir William Romney's as their first choice for sixth form courses in September 2006.

c) To put in place all necessary measures to ensure current Year-12 students are not disadvantaged in completing their Year-13 courses at Sir William Romney's in July 007. d) To further raise the level of 11-16 education at Sir William Romney's so that local students are even better prepared to enter sixth form education at neighbouring schoo s and colleges thereafter. The detailed submission to SOC will be prepared with the assistance of the Local Authority d copies circ School Governor will attend the SOC meeting to answe any questions that may arise.

Sir William Romney's School

Inspection Report Unique Reference Number LEA Inspection number Inspection dates Reporting inspector 115779 Gloucestershire 279680 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 Peter LimmHMI

This inspection was carried out under section 5 of the Education Act 2005.

Grade 3 Satisfactory

Grade 4 Inadequate Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 2

sporting activities. Students have a voice and their ideas are listened to, for example the introduction of a waste paper recycling scheme and new benches for socialising. Grade 2 Grade: 2

Curriculum and other activities Inspection Report: Sir William Romney's School 21 September 2005 to 22 September 2005 5

Achievement and standards

3 2 3 2 2 2 3

The quality of provision Annex A Leadership and management How effective are leadership and management in raising achievement and supporting all learners?

PRESCRIBED INFORMATION

PRESCRIBED ALTERATION REMOVAL OF A SIXTH FORM

School Name: Sir William Romney's

DfES Number: 916/5428

Local Education Authority area: Gloucestershire

Diocese (if applicable):

Proposals published by: SWR Governing Body

Date proposals published: 15 March 2006

Proposed implementation date: 01 September 2006

1. What are the objectives of the proposal?

3 Letter to parents Wed 8 Feb annex B Wed 8 ' 4 Initial meeting with LA/LSC staff Feb Notes - ann x C 5 Pre-notification to interested parties Mon 13 Feb annex D

Public consultation meeting at the Thurs 23rd 6 Record - an nex E school Feb

7 Statutory notices to media and Wednesdav posted at school entrances, public annex F 15th March library and town notice boards

15th March – No responses 8 Public Consultation period (6weeks) 26th April received

8. Where the proposals relate to a voluntary school, please provide: Not Applicable

J. School Capacity, Admission Number and Pupil Details K. Ofsted Report September 2005 L. Examination Results

Prescribed Information Sir William

Romney's School

Supplementary Information

Concerning Capital investment required to implement the proposals. No capital funding is required to implement these proposals.

In Attendance: Mr B Goff (Clerk), Mrs C Berry (Hd of Sixth), Mrs J Green (Minutes Secret #y)

13. Governor Comments

With all business being complete, the meeting closed at 9.20pm

8th February 2006 Head/Parlett/j ac

Sixth Form at Sir William Romney's School Notes of SWR/LA/LSC Meeting 8th February 2006 at the School Attendance:

S WR: Head Teacher - Eric Dawson Chair of Governors - Mike Barnes Chair of Finance - Brian Cook Business Manager - Brian Goff

• Current Yr 12 to progress to Yr-13 and complete in 2007

• LA will advise contact list for consultation process (AS)

• LA will assist with preparation of Statutory Notice Is'-7h March (AS)

• LA will assist with preparation of Notice to SOC - 24th-28th April (AS) for final 3. Alternative placement support for displaced current Yr 11 students.

PRELIMINARY NOTICE

PROPOSAL TO CLOSE THE SIXTH FORM AT SIR WILLIAM ROMNEY'S SCHOOL

Signed: B Goff, Clerk to Governors 13th February 2006 Distribution:

Cllr Mr S Hirst, Mayor of Tetbury, Tetbury Town Council

Cllr Mrs S Reed, Mayor of Nailsworth, Nailsworth Town Council The Chief Executive, Cotswold District Council The Chief Executive, Stroud District Council

Mrs M Henderson' Headmistress, Westonbirt School

Mrs P Needham, Headteacher, Woodchester Endowed C of E Primary School Mr D Whyte, Headteacher, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School Mrs S Smith, Editor, Stroud News & Journal

SIR WILLIAM ROMNEY'S SCHOOL - PROPOSED CLOSURE OF 6TH FORM

NOTES OF A PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETING HELD AT THE SCHOOL THURSDAY 23rd FEBRUARY 20061.

PROPOSAL TO CLOSE THE SIXTH FORM AT SIR WILLIAM ROMNEY'S SCHOOL

23 February 2006 Initial Public Consultation meeting at 7.30 pin at the school

Signed: B Goff, Clerk to Governors 13th February 2006 Distribution:

Mrs J Grills, Director of Education, Gloucestershire County Council

Cllr Mr S Hirst, Mayor of Tetbury, Tetbury Town Council

Cllr Mrs S Reed, Mayor of Nailsworth, Nailsworth Town Council The Chief Executive, Cotswold District Council The Chief Executive, Stroud District Council

Mr A Harris, Headteacher, Katharine Lady Berkeley's School Mrs A Stokes, Headteacher, Farmors School Miss C Oates, Headteacher, Cirencester Kingshill School Ms C Henson, Headteacher, Cirencester Deer Park School Mrs K Harwood, Headteacher, Archway School Mr M Trobe, Headteacher, Malmesbury School

Mrs M Henderson, Headmistress, Westonbirt School

Mr 9 Etherington_ Headteacher. St Marvs C of E Primarv School

1610

Sir William Romney's School Closure of Sixth Form

ANNe7~

Extract From SWR Board Meeting Minutes 27th April 2006

to become an 11-16 school.

7 b) To ensure successful alternative placements for the thirteen Year-11 students who h selected Sir William Romney's as their first choice for sixth form courses in September 2006.