Oakford Primary School to close at end of this year

3/7/98

Oakford Primary School students will attend new schools in their area from next year with the current school to close at the end of this year.

Education Minister Colin Barnett said today that after consultation with the local community, the Education Department would identify a suitable site for a new primary school to be built in the future if enrolment numbers rose sufficiently to justify a new school.

In the meantime, however, the current Oakford Primary School would close. Many students were expected to attend Marri Grove Primary School.

Mr Barnett said he visited Oakford Primary School in May and discussed the future of the school with staff and parents. He said the school was in need of improvements or rebuilding, however, low enrolment numbers could not justify the significant expenditure required when more modern schools in the area were equipped to take extra students.

"Oakford Primary School is a credit to the staff and parents who have worked tirelessly over the years to provide an excellent education for the children who attend," the Minister said.

"There are specialist programs available to students thanks to the dedication of many staff and parents who have joined together to provide extra opportunities for their children through the school.

"These factors are acknowledged, however, students and staff deserve a better working environment. There are fewer than 100 students at the school, the buildings are temporary and are not comparable to the standards of neighbouring schools such as Marri Grove. The site is also less than ideal, being prone to flooding, septic system problems and a lack of scheme water.

"The Education Department will work closely with the school community to ensure the transition of students from Oakford to other schools is as smooth as possible. I am confident that the high quality of education will be maintained at other schools in the area."

Mr Barnett said the District Director (Schools), Rose Moroz, would establish an implementation committee, which would include parents, to support the students as they moved schools. The committee would also work to ensure that school records and memorabilia are protected.

A transport plan for students would now be finalised and parents would receive a relocation grant to assist in expenditure for new school items such as uniforms.

Mr Barnett said the Education Department would also consult with the local community about a site for a future primary school should enrolments rise sufficiently.

"I understand that the move from Oakford to another primary school could be disruptive for the school community and I encourage everyone involved to work together to ensure the transition is as easy as possible," he said.

Media contact: Justine Whittome (08) 9222 9699