Stawley Primary School, one of Somerset’s highest-performing primary schools, is set to lose a classroom as part of Somerset Council’s redevelopment plans—raising concerns among school governors about potential job losses and impacts on pupils’ wellbeing.
Situated in the village of Stawley near the Devon-Somerset border, Stawley Primary School has earned praise for its inclusive environment and academic excellence. Despite this, the council’s plans approved in late 2024 to replace temporary buildings with new facilities feature only two classrooms instead of the current three.
Governors argue that reducing classroom numbers will strain the school’s ability to support its high proportion of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), who make up 28.3% of the student body. Ruthven Burdon-Cooper, chair of the Wellington Area Rural Federation Schools group, highlighted the issue during a full council meeting in Bridgwater on September 26.
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“For over a decade, we have successfully maintained a three-class structure within budget,” Burdon-Cooper explained, emphasizing the school’s consistent placement among the top primary schools in Somerset and ranking within the top two percent nationally. “Reducing to two classrooms risks job losses and undermines support for vulnerable pupils.”
The council maintains that low pupil numbers do not justify a third classroom. Councillor Heather Shearer, portfolio holder for children, families, and education, stated that after peaking at 57 students in 2025-2026, enrollment is forecasted to fall to 48 by 2029. “According to Department for Education guidelines, classes of up to 30 pupils are permitted,” she said. “Our plans include therapy and group spaces that can be adapted for SEND needs, ensuring flexibility to meet current and future demands.”
Governors counter that the council excluded 39% of pupils, namely those registered with SEND, from funding calculations. They also claim the potential reduction in staff and impact on protected groups was not adequately considered. Furthermore, Burdon-Cooper says consultations with school leadership were absent despite official claims to the contrary.
The school’s latest Ofsted report from December 2024 commends its pupils’ sense of belonging, safety, happiness, and exemplary behaviour, underscoring its commitment to both academic success and wellbeing. Governors are therefore urging Somerset Council to reconsider and fund the third classroom to preserve the school’s inclusive ethos and high standards.