A PROPOSAL to close Chillerton and Rookley Primary School has been suspended following the election of Debbie Andre as the new cabinet member for children’s services, education and skills.

The Save Our School campaign — which was formed to oppose the closure — had been working behind the scenes to build a business case for the introduction of flexible schooling on the Isle of Wight.

READ MORE: Save Our School claims victory as closure plans halted

This would support the high percentage of home educating parents as well as keep the 170 year old, rural school viable.

Now, Cllr Andre has confirmed there will be no immediate closure as the matter is investigated further.

Cllr Andre said: “As the newly elected leadership of this council, it is only right and proper we look at all issues we have inherited from the previous administration.

"This includes the future of Chillerton and Rookley Primary School and Godshill Primary School.

“We take this endeavour very seriously and want to carefully consider all options before deciding the next steps. There will, therefore, be no immediate decision.

“This means the current situation of having two separate schools will remain in place for September 2021."

Earlier this year, the Isle of Wight Council sited a poor intake for places as a prime reason for the closure.

It reported that just 34 pupils were registered in a school built for 91 and no first preference applications had been received for the 2021/22 academic year.

It also estimated a budget deficit of around £101,000 for 2020/21, which they forecast to grow to £225,000 by 2023 due to a decline in pupil numbers.