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

UPDATED STORY: New administration halts closure of school with children able to join in September

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.

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

Cllr Andre said: “I am opposed to the closure of the school and see the value of schools such as this, not just in terms of education, but as an essential part of rural village life.

"I want to be able to offer parents and students the widest possible choice in terms of high quality education.

“The decision to close (the school) has been suspended”

Save Our School campaign spokesperson, Keith Herbert, added: “I would like to thank the new council leadership for listening to our concerns and giving parents left in limbo assurances their children will be welcome at the school in September.

"The quality of teaching and environment at the school is everything we could wish for our children.”

More information on Isle of Wight flexi-schooling can be found by joining the Facebook group online.