The schools partnership which runs Critchill School has plans to increase pupil numbers and potentially increase outreach work, to Frome and beyond.

In a letter to parents in Frome the CEO of the partnership said that they want to increase the number of planned places at Critchill from 66 to 80 - with effect from this September.

Alun Williams wrote:

"The reasons for this proposed expansion are:

1) There is an increasing need for special school places in the Frome area. This is the result of population growth over time, but also the because of an increasing proportion of pupils presenting with severe or complex needs.

2) A 66 place special school is relatively small by comparison to other special schools nationally and indeed within and around Somerset. As a result of this, overall funding for the school is limited, which has restricted the development of important facilities for children.

3) Improved provision and staffing capacity will enable Critchill to better support outreach work in mainstream schools in the Frome area, within the Midsomer Norton Schools' Partnership and beyond. "

The application is due to be made to the Regional Schools'

Commissioner, with formal consultation until 20th July.

You can submit your thoughts or concerns, in writing to Sharon Crane – Trust PA, C/O Somervale School, Redfield Road, Midsomer Norton,

or email her at [email protected]