Press Release
HUNDREDS SEE NEW COWES SCHOOL PLANS

Hundreds of people attended an event in Cowes to find out about plans for a new secondary school in the town.

Isle of Wight Council school reorganisation staff answered questions from local residents, school staff and community organisation about the One School Pathfinder Project.

During the four-hour information event held on Tuesday 25 May, visitors had the chance to ask questions about the proposals for the new state-of-the-art learning centre.

Questions ranged from highways issues to how the new facilities can be used by the local community. Groups were particularly interested in how the drama, performance and sound recording facilities could be used by the local community as well as the impressive sporting facilities which will include multi use games areas, all weather pitches and a large sports hall.

Janet Newton, Schools Capital Project Director at the Isle of Wight Council said: "There was much enthusiasm for the project and the opportunities it presents to both the students and the wider community. The whole ethos of the project is for the school to not only be a centre of excellence for the students but also to provide facilities for the local community , so it was heartening to see so many local residents attending the event."

The team, along with the trustees of the Cowes Pathfinder Partnership – who will run the new school – have now begun evaluating the two bids before selecting their preferred bidder by the middle of June. The successful bidder will then begin to agree equipment, furniture and colour schemes in consultation with students and staff while the planning application is submitted.