Written question WQ99479
- Asked by
- Darren MillarConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 10 days
Question
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to the impact of closures of independent schools on local authority-maintained schools?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language (Anna Brychan)
I recognise that the closure, or potential closure, of an independent school can be deeply unsettling for learners, families and staff. Continuity of education and the welfare of learners should be central to any decisions taken by those responsible for the school.
Independent schools are privately managed and are not controlled or funded by the Welsh Government. Decisions about their operation, finances, future viability and estates are therefore matters for their proprietors.
Families affected by closures should contact their local authority, which is responsible for identifying alternative placements, planning sufficient maintained school places, considering individual learner needs, and managing any local impact on maintained schools.