Ministers agree closure of Christchurch’s Parkfield School at Hurn

MINISTERS have agreed for Parkfield School to close despite a desperate attempt by parents and pupils to keep it open.

The Christchurch school announced in June it was shutting down due to “falling and unsustainable” numbers of pupils.

The news from Reach South Academy Trust, which has run the free school since 2018, “devastated” pupils and their parents.

Former governor of the school Emma O’Callaghan claimed the closure had been based on “inaccurate and mispresented evidence”.

She added: “It’s worrying that evidence highlighting these inaccuracies were ignored. Many students have been left without appropriate schools. Given its central location Parkfield would have been perfect for all students in the area needing a smaller, nurturing school if Reach South had marketed it appropriately.

“Instead Parkfield students are being squeezed into already full, unsuitable schools. With new housing developments in Parley and Christchurch and students transitioning from private education choosing a school in an area with limited suitable spaces doesn’t seem like a wise decision.

“Parkfield was a fantastic school with a wonderful and dedicated staff. It could have been very successful if given the chance to thrive.”

In July parents held a demonstration at the school but just three weeks later has come the confirmation that they have not been able to save it with the Department for Education approving its closure.

Yesterday a statement from the trust revealed that they have now: “Formally received ministerial agreement for Parkfield School to close.

“This means that Parkfield will close partially at the end of August 2024 and close fully to the remaining Year 11 students at the end of August 2025.

“All children bar Year 11 have now been allocated a place in a local school from September.

“For the Year 11s staying with us next year, we have a full team in place to support their studies and everyone is fully committed to making this a positive experience for all students, setting them up for future success as they take their next steps.

“This has obviously been a challenging time for everyone, and whilst none of us would have wanted this outcome, given there were no other options to keep the school open every decision taken has been with the best interests of the children in mind.

“We fully understand though the upset and worry this has caused our school community, and want to thank our staff and our families for their understanding through this really challenging time.”

Parkfield started in an office block in Bournemouth in 2013, before moving to its current site on the former air traffic control centre at Bournemouth Airport.