Why expand Twyning Primary School?
The council has a statutory obligation to ensure there are sufficient primary places to meet demand. The current rise in population of under five year olds and housing developments has resulted in the need for additional primary places at Reception at Twyning Primary School. We have held discussions with the Headteacher and Governors on whether they would be able (with appropriate modifications) to accommodate extra pupils. The Head and Governors are supportive of the expansion and the next stage is to consult with parents and local residents to see if there are any issues that we have not addressed.
What size will the school be?
Currently the school has an admission number of 15 and an overall permanent capacity of 105. The proposal is to increase the admission number to the Reception year of the school from 15 to 20 from the September 2024 intake. This would not affect the size of the other year groups at that time. As the 2024 intake moves through the school the overall capacity will increase each year reaching a final total of 140 places by the 2030 intake.
What will it mean for the school?
If the decision is made to permanently expand the school, a feasibility study will be undertaken to determine the required accommodation need to accommodate the extra pupils.
How do you know there will be extra pupils?
Pupil numbers are forecasted every year for each school in the county. This allows us to predict how many children will require school places in different areas in the coming years. We also take account of historic parental preferences to give us an idea of likely demand in an area.
There has also been various small developments in the area which has resulted in the need for additional school places at the school.
Is there enough space on the site for this proposed expansion?
Yes. Building design would ensure best use of the available space with minimum impact on existing facilities.
Will there be extra traffic?
The additional places are being provided to cater for local demand and therefore the majority of children will be expected to walk or cycle to school. Gloucestershire County Council Highways will be consulted and have the opportunity to comment on the proposal as part of the planning application process.
If the expansion does not go ahead, there would be extra traffic transporting Twyning children to schools in Tewkesbury.
How and when would any building work be carried out?
Any building work required would be carried out by contractors who are experienced in ensuring that there is as little disruption to the children’s education as possible. The work would be scheduled to maximise the school holiday periods and to minimise disruption to the operation of the school.
Will this expansion affect my child’s education?
The proposed expansion will not have any detrimental effect on the standard of education delivered. Existing class sizes will stay the same and the ethos of the school under the existing Governors and Leadership team would remain unchanged.
Why can’t the extra pupils go to another school?
Naturally, most parents want to be able to send their children to their local primary school in their own community. Increased demand in the immediate locality has meant that we require places at this school. By expanding the school, it will allow more parents to be able to send their children to their local school.
How will it be funded?
The proposed expansion would be funded through the council’s Capital Programme.