By Local Democracy Reporter Daniel Mumby
Frome parents and residents have until 10th July to have their say on proposals to replace the town’s three-tier school system with a two-tier model.
Frome is one of the few remaining parts of Somerset operating a three-tier school system (comprising first, middle and upper schools) rather than the more widespread two-tier system (comprising primary and secondary schools).
An informal consultation was held in February and March over the proposed shift to a two-tier system, with 71 per cent of parents expressing their support in principle for the changes.
A public consultation is now open until 10th July with the changes expected to take effect from September 2028 if there is sufficient public support.
The reforms have been prompted in part by falling birth rates across the wider Frome area, decreasing the class sizes at several schools and raising concerns about the long-term viability of the system.
Under the proposal, Frome would be served by two secondary schools – Frome College and Selwood Academy – and 14 primary schools, alongside additional local provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Frome College would accept admissions from the following primary schools: Avanti Park, Leigh-on-Mendip Primary School, Mells First School, Nunney First School, St John’s First School, St Louis Primary School, Trinity First School, Vallis First School.
Selwood Academy would accept admissions from the following primary schools Beckington First School, Berkley First School, Christ Church First School, Hayesdown First School, Norton St Philip, Rode First School.
Oakfield Academy will be re-purposed as a SEND-specific site, with up to 60 pupils between Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 4.
The council believe shifting to a two-tier system could “reduce the number of transitions pupils make during their school life, improve curriculum progression and make better use of buildings, staffing and specialist support”.
Councillor Heather Shearer, portfolio holder for children, families and education, said, “We know how important school arrangements are to children, families and staff and we want to hear from as many people as possible before any decisions are made.
“The proposal is about creating an education system in Frome that is sustainable, supports children and young people to thrive, whilst meeting the needs of the community now and in the future.”
More than 800 residents participated in the original consultation, of which 71 per cent were in favour of the reforms, 22 per cent were against and seven per cent were undecided.
To give your views on the proposals, visit https://shorturl.at/ZesUP by 10th July.
If approved, the changes would be introduced from September 2028 for the majority of the sites.
The Oakfield site is not likely to become operational until September 2029, due to the need to make extensive modifications to the site to better suit pupils’ needs.
