Richard Holden MP today made another visit to Witton-le-Wear Primary school as part of his push to help them get funding for better facilities
During the local election, when Conservative candidate Will Weardale knocked on Mrs Yuill’s door she spoke to him about Witton-le-Wear Primary School, for which she is a governor. The ‘outstanding’ school built for 50 pupils in 1968, now has more than 80 children attending and as such finds itself unable to maintain its standard without further investment. The original building is too small, with its classrooms are separated by thin dividers.
Richard Holden MP took up the campaign following a visit to the school in June. Meeting with Mrs Yuill and the Head Teacher Mr Steve Whelerton, he promised to raise their case with the Department of Education.
As promised, in July Mr Holden spoke directly with former Schools Minister Nick Gibb MP. Mr Holden raised the under-funding of the school compared to its standard of education and as a result the minister had directed the Department of Education to look at the case closely and work with the school and local council to see what can be done.
Mr Holden visited the school again, bringing with him the Head of Delivery and Intervention from the Department of Education. School Governors were able to explain the situation directly to the department representative, who will now come back with options as to what can be done and how it might be funded.
Commenting, Richard Holden MP said:
“On my visit to Witton-le-Wear Primary School in June, I saw for myself how well the school is run, especially considering it has nearly doubled its intake. I was also particularly surprised, during my Q and A with the children, to see how many were not from the village but travelled to attend because of the quality of the school.
“I will always do everything I can to help local schools. Nick has been very helpful and the visit today is just the next step in making sure we keep this outstanding local school open, up to standard and fit for purpose”
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