Emotions run high at school (From Free Press Series)

Emotions run high at school

TEMPERS were frayed as campaigners, parents and pupils battling to save a threatened school turned out to quiz education chiefs on the school's future.

Around 70 people met at Trevethin school on Monday night to discuss the future of secondary education in North Torfaen.

Following a record-breaking demonstration by school supporters in September, numbers at the meeting were depleted.

A fact supporters claim is down to a "flawed" consultation process. They now plan to call for a second consultation meeting. Director for Education Mike de Val was bombarded with questions over the reliance of pupil post - the method used to distribute letters announcing the meeting.

After the meeting Mr de Val said: "Pupil post is the method that is used in all authorities across Wales and it is a more economical method than using the postal service."

"I intend to see to it that replacement letters are sent out first thing," he added.

Torfaen council education department maintain that their preferred £12 million option is viable. It would include a special needs unit at Abersychan.

West Mon school would get a new vocational centre and a performing arts complex.

Supporters claim Trevethin is the victim in the reorganisation. Despite falling pupil numbers, parents argue that "small is beautiful."

A tearful Trevethin pupil broke down as she put her question to Mr de Val - her concerns about disruption and bullying are very real.

Sara Pearce said: "I don't want to leave this school. I've been bullied before and I don't want to face it again."

Mr de Val stressed that it was important "to put the facts before people," and assured them that a preferred option "does not mean that the council cannot change its mind."

He praised the staff at Trevethin but was adamant that the interest of the pupils was of paramount importance.

He said: "The issue is viability and how we can give these children the range of opportunities that are available elsewhere."

Other meetings concerning the reorganisation take place this week, starting at 7pm: Abersychan School November 4; Cwmffrwdoer Primary, November 8; Penygarn Junior, November 9; Griffithstown Junior November 11; Council Chamber, County Hall, November 15; Blaenavon Leisure Centre, November 16.