Stawley Primary School, one of Somerset’s highest-performing primary schools, is set to reduce its classroom count as part of council plans to rebuild the school’s facilities. Situated in the village of Stawley between Wellington and Wiveliscombe, near the Devon-Somerset border, the school has long been praised for its strong academic results and supportive environment.
In November 2024, Somerset Council approved plans to replace the school’s temporary buildings with new, permanent classrooms. However, while planning permission initially allowed for three classrooms, the new development will only include two. This decision has prompted concern among the school’s governors, who fear it may lead to staff layoffs and negatively impact children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Ruthven Burdon-Cooper, chairman of the Wellington Area Rural Federation group of schools, addressed the council on September 26 during a full meeting in Bridgwater. He highlighted the school’s success despite its considerable proportion of SEND students, which stands at 28.3%. Operating a three-class structure for over ten years, Stawley Primary achieved results placing it in the top tier of Somerset schools and within the top two percent nationally.
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Despite these achievements, Somerset Council’s rebuild plans limit the school to two classrooms. The council justifies this by citing low pupil numbers, stating that Department for Education (DfE) guidelines permit up to 30 children per class and that a third classroom is unnecessary.
Burdon-Cooper criticized the council’s decision, pointing out that 39% of pupils, including those with SEND, were excluded in capital funding calculations. He also noted the absence of consultation with the headteacher and a lack of consideration for the potential impact on staff employment and protected groups within the school.
“Our request is for the council to reconsider funding a third classroom to maintain and build upon the school’s success,” Burdon-Cooper urged.
Responding, Councillor Heather Shearer, portfolio holder for children, families, and education, explained that pupil numbers are forecasted to decline, reducing the need for a third classroom. She provided figures showing a baseline of 54 pupils in 2024, rising slightly to 57 in 2025-2026 before falling to 48 by 2029.
Shearer added that the new plans include a therapy or withdrawal room which can be designated as a SEND resource if needed, alongside additional group breakout spaces exceeding statutory requirements for the school’s population. She emphasized the school’s flexibility in using these spaces to address current and future needs.
While the council maintains the build meets long-term demand, concerns remain among school leaders who fear that the reduced classroom capacity could strain resources and staff, potentially impacting the wellbeing and educational experience of vulnerable students.