Final approval has been given to the merger of Davigdor Infant School and Somerhill Junior School in Hove, creating an all-through primary school for children aged 4-11 with effect from 1 September 2015.
The plans were given the final nod by Brighton and Hove City Council’s children, young people and skills committee yesterday after months of consultation.
The plans have been backed by governors, and a consultation or parents and staff in February resulted in 74 responses in favour and 26 against.
The plans were sparked by the retirement of head of Davigdor Infants Ged Cotton, which under council policy led to the consideration of the amalgamation of its linked junior school. Junior school head Shaun Collins will now lead both schools.
Chair of the children, young people and skills committee Tom Bewick, said: “Davigdor and Somerhill are both successful and popular schools. The merger has a lot of support locally and we will believe it will bring significant benefits for the children.”
The reasons why the council favours all-through primary schools include greater continuity, flexibility, parental contact and practical advantages with uniforms, school policies etc.
