Tears dry up as school dispute is resolved

May 2 2008 by Richard Fletcher, Chester Chronicle

A SCHOOL dispute which left children in tears over classroom changes has been resolved.

Parents say children in years three and four at Hoole Primary School were upset by the mid-term class shuffle.

Vicki Mather, whose son Tom is in year three, said: “None of our children is with friends. It’s such a drastic and rushed change. The years have always been mixed at this school – last year they separated years three and four and we thought they would be put together in September. The parents are very angry.”

The school explained classes had been separated into age groups to give them the best education.

When a teacher went off sick , the school did not have the money for a supply teacher and had to change back to mixed classes.

Headteacher Judith Sharman said: “We were putting our money into small class sizes. I have every confidence the teachers have the skills to ensure the children get an excellent education. I would hate people to think this was driven through financial cuts.

“Last Monday morning it was business as usual. Lots of parents have been very happy.”

Mrs Sharman met with parents and explained the situation.

One parent said: “An apology letter came out today. The majority of parents are happy with the contents of the letter.”