Quinninup Primary School to close

10/5/04
Declining student numbers will see the closure of Quinninup Primary School at the end of the first semester, Friday, July 9.
Education and Training Minister Alan Carpenter said today enrolments were at a point where students' social and educational development could be adversely affected and they would benefit from being involved in a larger school environment.
Mr Carpenter said the decision to close the school followed extensive consultation with the local community and had been made in the best interests of the remaining 13 students.
"The students at Quinninup Primary School will benefit from increased educational, as well as social, opportunities," he said.
"Student numbers at Quinninup have reached the stage where any advantages of low student-teacher ratios were outweighed by disadvantages in terms of fewer opportunities for social interaction amongst peers.
"Attending a larger school will provide greater choice for students."
The Minister said the Quinninup students would now attend one of the Manjimup schools or parents could choose to send their children to Northcliffe District High School or to Pemberton District High School.
"A support program will be developed in consultation with parents to assist with the transition for students and staff to new schools," he said.
"Transport is already available for students travelling to the Manjimup schools and for some students to Northcliffe District High School."
Mr Carpenter said the District Education Office would work with parents and the local community to oversee the school's closure.
"The need to preserve the history of Quinninup Primary School will form an important part of closing the school," he said.
"Students and staff, current and former, will be able to take part in the school closure commemorations."
A relocation allowance of $250 per student currently enrolled from pre-primary to Year Seven will be available to assist parents with educational expenses related to the relocation of their children to another Government school.
Minister's office: 9213 6800