Stedham Primary celebrates as fear of closure comes to an end

A public meeting, scheduled to take place tomorrow (Thursday 13) has been cancelled.

David Furlow, chair of governors at the school said: “It’s been an uncertain period for our community but also an uplifting experience on many levels.

“Our staff and governors have worked as one and with real determination to secure the future of our school.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support we received from parents at our school, as well as the support from the wider community.”

Parents are said to be ‘extremely happy’ that the 140-year-old school has been safeguarded for future generations.

Parent and resident, Mike Jordan, can now look forward to his younger daughter walking to school with her big sister when she starts reception class in September.

He said: “The school was a deciding factor for us when we moved to the village.

“Our daughter is very happy at Stedham.

“The school breathes life into the village and we are very pleased that both of our girls will be going to their local village school, with their friends nearby.”

Stedham Primary School has recently federated with Harting C of E Primary School, a move that the Head Teachers and staff at both schools are excited about.

Head teacher Malcolm Meaby said: “I am really excited about the opportunities that federation brings.

“Working closely with Harting C.E. Primary will strengthen both schools and enable us to deliver an exciting and enriching curriculum.

“The opportunities of two small village schools working in the outstanding beauty of the South Downs National Park means we can put greater emphasis on outdoor learning.”

Vice chair of governors, Celia Billington, said, “Keeping a small school in the Midhurst area gives parents choice.

“Large schools do not suit all children.

“Stedham provides the pastoral care and tailored education that can only be delivered in a small school, where every child is known by every member of staff.”