Huge demo shows school support (From Free Press Series)

Huge demo shows school support

THE largest demonstration in Pontypool since the miners' strike inspired supporters of Trevethin Community school to take on the national Assembly in a bid to save their school.

And in a meeting on Monday those backing the school began drawing up battle plans, outlining their reasons for keeping the school open.

They intend to present the document to the National Assembly at the end of this month.

Director of Education Mike de Val said it would be "extremely unlikely" that the National Assembly would block plans to close the school.

Community Action Team (CAT) member Vivien Lewis said: "What Torfaen County Borough Council are proposing will cost more money than they need to spend."

Local community councillor for St Cadoc's and Penygarn Ian New joined Friday's march to show his support.

He said: "What the council are trying to do is going to cost £12 million, whereas it would only cost £2 million to put Trevethin right."

Those in favour of keeping the school open claim that from three choices available, the council have opted for the most expensive - namely to close the school and update Abersychan and West Mon in order to accommodate the extra students they will receive.

Acting Chief Executive for Torfaen Council Peter Durkin stated that closure was the council's preferred option. He pointed out that the final decision was in the hands of the National Assembly.

The closure of the school was recommended by the education department amid claims that numbers have decreased leaving just 400 students on the registers.

Supporters however, say though small in size, the school provides a secure atmosphere for its pupils and attains a good educational standard.

The consultation is due to start in October. Following consultation the council must review the findings and give another opportunity for objections. Only then will plans be put before the Assembly for a final decision to be made. The proposal isn't expected to reach the assembly until later next year.

Chairman of support group Community Action Team (CAT) Arthur Attwood was on the march and like many others was sporting the bright t-shirts bearing the messaged SOS (Save our School).

He said: "There were many parents and children from Trevethin's feeder schools on the march, who were hoping to go to the school in the future. This is not a failing school - it is a small school but it's right for the pupils."

Mr Attwood said the demonstrators were focused on giving a show of unity.

He added: "We are not fighting the head teacher, we are fighting the LEA and the council."

The loudest shouts of protest came from Trevethin's students, who turned out in force, waving banners reminding onlookers that 'we are the future.'

Stacey Davies is fifteen and said: "The school is a great size because everyone knows each other and every teacher knows every single pupil and so there is no bullying."