That the scrutiny
committee remained concerned about the situation and, therefore, refers the
matter back to the Cabinet for reconsideration for the following reasons:
·
Owing to the COVID situation and legal guidelines and the Education
Department's policies, it is not possible to hold meetings in the usual manner
and it is impossible to hold meetings with some individuals who have a keen
interest in the matter. It is also impossible to hold public meetings in the
usual manner in the community to discuss and respond to the consultation.
·
The Head was off work during this period, and continues to be off
work. As the permanent head knows the
school’s situation best, continuing with the process while she remains off work
would be unfair to the school and the community.
·
Some believe that small schools should not be closed without scrutinising
the decision.
Permission
was granted to undertake a statutory consultation, in accordance with the
requirements of section 48 of the School Standards and Organisation (Wales) Act
2013, on the proposal to close Ysgol Abersoch on 31 August 2021 and to provide a
place for the pupils at Ysgol Sarn Bach from 1 September 2021 onwards.