Saltdean Primary School to expand

Saltdean Primary School looks likely to grow by 50 per cent to help tackle the shortage of places across Brighton and Hove.

The school, in Chiltington Way, Saltdean, is expected to have three classes in each year – or three forms of entry – instead of the current two.

Brighton and Hove City Council is preparing statutory notices with a view to the school enlarging from September next year.

The school has already agreed to take a bulge class for the coming school year.

The effect of the changes will mean that the school will grow from having 420 pupils to 630.

The council’s Children and Young People Committee is expected to make a final decision on the expansion plan at a meeting on Monday 13 October.

Suzanne Morgan

Head teacher Suzanne Morgan wrote to parents before the summer term ended, saying: “We are taking another ‘bulge’ class for Reception for September 2014.

“This class will be housed in the existing mobile classroom, next to the main Reception area.

“An additional mobile unit will be erected on the field next to the Key Stage 1 playground. Next year, Year 2 classes will occupy the two classrooms.

“Both these structures are temporary and plans are under development, alongside consultation, for a big build to take the school to a permanent three-form entry primary.

“Many of you attended the meeting with Brighton and Hove Council representatives earlier this term.

“As soon as plans are available, you will be invited to view and comment, as we value your opinions.

“We want all children from Saltdean to be able to come to our school and feel part of the family community we are keen to continue to develop.”

Without expansion, at least 20 Saltdean children each year would be forced to travel more than three miles to the nearest primary schools with spare places.

Councillor Sue Shanks, who chairs the council’s Children and Young People Committee, said: “I believe we need to do everything we can to enable young children to go to a school that’s near to them.

“I’m confident that we can expand Saltdean Primary in a way that maintains its current ethos and excellent standards.”