FOLLOWING the announcement that three Church of England (C of E) Isle of Wight schools are at risk of closure, Diocese of Portsmouth says parents should be offered an alternative C of E school that is easily accessible.

The Diocese of Portsmouth, which covers 133 parishes across the Isle of Wight and south-east Hampshire, has pledged to play a robust and constructive part in any consultation process to close C of E schools in Oakfield, Brading and Arreton.

They are among six schools the Isle of Wight Council is proposing to close, to reduce the number of surplus places across the Island.

The Diocese’s view is that, if the closure of any C of E Island school is proposed, pupils should be offered places at an alternative C of E school easily accessible to families.

It will make this point during the consultation process that is expected to be approved by council leaders tomorrow (Thursday).

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The bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev Jonathan Frost, lead bishop for education at the Church of England, said: “I only heard about these proposals last week, so I am still working through the data presented by the Isle of Wight Council and many messages from parents and staff that have been sent to me since.

“I am also speaking to each of our headteachers.

 “I can understand the rationale behind the proposals, but I believe C of E schools offer something vital and distinctive that could easily be lost.

“Church schools aren’t there to fill our pews or force religion onto people. They are there to serve their local communities.

“Our position is clear, and in all six places where schools have been earmarked for closure, I would expect local church congregations to support their local school.

“I am asking clergy across the whole Island to walk alongside and support those affected by this uncertainty and stress.”

The three C of E schools are run by the council as the local education authority, but the Anglican Diocese of Portsmouth advises on issues such as the ethos, collective worship and RE.

Oakfield Primary and Arreton are voluntary-aided, which means the Church of England contributes to building projects.

Jeff Williams, director of education for the Diocese of Portsmouth, said: “We will be engaging robustly with the council as they consult on these proposals, and would expect to be present at all of the public meetings called by the council to discuss them.

“We will listen to all of the arguments put forward by the council, and also listen to the concerns of our parents and staff.

“We will be as supportive as we can at this difficult time.”

Mr Williams has urged those with concerns to contact the Isle of Wight’s education authority with their views during any consultation period.