The Comhairle has held a seminar to consider the way forward with respect to S1/S2 provision in the Western Isles. Arising from the seminar was the view that a Member/Officer Working Group should be established at the next series of Comhairle meetings next month to develop proposals for consideration.

Mr Norman L Macdonald, Chairman of the Education and Children’s Services Committee said “it is clear that there are major issues which require to be considered not only in relation to the Best Value Review of S1/S2 provision but with respect to the requirements of the proposed 3-18 curriculum. The best way to do full justice to that, in my view, is through the establishment of a Member/Officer Working Group which shall involve and consult stakeholders prior to the Comhairle coming to a decision on the way forward.”

In the meantime the Comhairle has confirmed that there are no currently extant proposals, or timetable, to close S1/S2 schools. While a possible timescale was set out in the Review Document its purpose was to illustrate how the rolls of the S1/S2 schools could be phased into S6 schools over the next few years, as projected rolls decline, in the event of a decision to alter current modes of provision.

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk