Education’s move to save two-school model ‘utter nonsense’ – campaigners

The group People Power Guernsey believes the only solution to the loss in confidence over the two-school model is to stop the transformation programme, and support the ‘pause and review’ requete.

Education, Sport & Culture has made a bid to salvage their plan, by asking for a States debate after the June election to consider whether extra space should be added to the schools at Baubigny and St Sampson’s.

ESC is tabling an amendment which, if successful, would cancel out the requete and open the door to ploughing more money into the schools to make them more spacious.

But the latest political development has failed to win over People Power Guernsey. A spokesperson said they were fundamentally opposed to the entire concept.

‘The people we represent do not support a two-school model, regardless of what space may be mish-mashed together in a further debate after the next election.

‘This amendment would only prove to endorse further the two-school model and mean plans will continue regardless of what may be decided in a debate after the next election.

‘This seems utter nonsense when those currently at the helm may not even be elected and plans debated post-June may impact what is being done now.

‘In essence, the continued transition may waste further money.’

ESC is hopeful that its amendment will placate teachers, who have written letters objecting to the plans.

The thrust of the amendment is that the newly-elected States Assembly would review whether additional funding and space could be provided. Particular attention would be paid to space for sixth forms and recreation. If successful, the move would allow the transition programme to continue because there are still several years until the schools will be at full intake with both Year 12 and Year 13 students.

A second strand to the amendment is a commitment to look again at the day-to-day operation of Lisia School, including lunch arrangements, the enrichment activities and the staff structure. Along with a lack of space, these aspects have been flashpoints for the teachers.

Many teachers are thought to be in favour of a non-selective model and an 11-18 set up; so ESC is hoping their amendment will win them back.

The amendment has, however, failed to convince People Power Guernsey, who are sticking to their position of being adamantly opposed.

In a statement, the group pointed to the 5,600-strong petition against the two schools, and the march through Town, which attracted a crowd of thousands.

People Power Guernsey has now created a poster with a photo of the marchers, and they are encouraging local businesses to display the poster in their shops.

So far, more than 30 businesses have taken them up on their offer, and some 150 posters have been distributed.