"I'M IMPATIENT TO SORT IT OUT" COUNCIL LEADER TELLS EDUCATION PROTESTORS

The new leader of the IW Council’s admitted “I’m impatient to sort [the Island’s education system] out”. Cllr David Pugh was speaking to protesters angry at plans to retain year nine in middle schools and to close a number of Island high schools, in favour of new learning centres. Around 100 parents, teachers and students gathered at lunchtime on Saturday, complete with samba band, for their third and final noisy public protest. Cllr Pugh told the crowd, “I know we haven’t always engaged with people properly”, adding “we want to have a real genuine debate”.

Just 3 days into their new jobs, Cllr Pugh and the IW Council’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Cllr Alan Wells both agreed to attend the protest in St Thomas’ Square in Newport to the surprise of organisers. Listening to the individual concerns of those who’d gathered soon gave way to speeches over a PA system. Cllrs Pugh and Wells promised more consultation and that views would be taken into consideration.

One of the UK’s youngest council leaders, 26-year-old Cllr Pugh told the group, “I’ve been through the education system myself. There are a few of my teachers in the crowd”. Detailed plans to improve the Island’s exam results are due to be released for consultation in October.

PHOTO: CLLR DAVID PUGH AGREES TO ADDRESS THE CROWD