No room for Weybridge children

It happened to my children so I completely understand how Weybridge parents feel when Surrey tells them that there are no school places for their children in the town. In my time, it was nine children from Manby Lodge who were refused a place in Weybridge and were offered places in Cobham, Hersham or Byfleet instead. Surrey was adamant that their duty was only to provide a school place but not to provide a school place in Weybridge. We, the parents, were equally adamant that a town with four junior schools should be able to take in every child living in Weybridge.  St James Primary School kindly offered a home to all nine children by going over the 30 pupil per class limit. Surrey rightly acquiesced. Now the problem is even bigger and harder to solve but it is definitely solvable.  Apparently, there are 26 children in need of a place in a Weybridge school in September 2014.  The most practical option, in my view, is for St James to have another bulge year for year threes in 2014.  There is room for a new class on the site but the hall, although recently expanded, would be under pressure - no more so than Heathside hall is already. If your child is in the position in 2014 or if you support the policy that Weybridge children should be schooled (if they wish) in Weybridge then please sign the petition here. Recently Surrey has delegated more powers to its Elmbridge local committee and there is a meeting on 20 June 2014.  I plan to raise the matter there - if it is not solve by then. For more information on the planning for Elmbridge school places click here. Watch this space.