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Menzieshill High School: Campaigners make late plea as council prepares to vote on closure plan

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A survey conducted by campaigners to save Menzieshill High School has returned more than 500 responses showing overwhelming support for keeping the school open.

The results were released ahead of tonight’s vote into the school’s future.

An 11th-hour letter to councillors formally opposing the closure and offering alternatives has also been submitted by campaigners.

The letter argues on three main points: the financial case, the public opinion case and the curriculum provided by Menzieshill and Harris schools.

Protesters urge decision-makers on the education committee to consider the long-term implications.

Written by the group, the statement reads: “Before taking this decision, the education committee must be satisfied that the closure proposal is a long-term solution rather than a budgetary decision.

“Given the public opposition, it must ensure all reasonable measures have been taken to make Menzieshill a viable high school.

“The proposal leaves no realistic scope for different kinds of schools to meet different needs, aspirations and curriculums.”

The survey shows 95% of the 549 respondents believe the school should stay open, while nearly 90% believe closure of the school will have a negative effect on the community.

More than 85% believe educational standards will decline if Menzieshill is closed.

A spokesman for the campaigners said: “The reasons for opposition are varied, but it is clear that the council have not made their case and that closure will be against the will of the community.”

Labour’s education spokesperson, Councillor Laurie Bidwell, said: “Proposing to close a school is a very serious business and is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly. On Monday night we will be sharing with our colleagues on the education committee our concern that the case for the closure of Menzieshill High School is flawed and the consultation process is incomplete.

“Earlier this week, the education convener, Councillor Stewart Hunter, was quoted as saying he was not sure that there was enough room at the Menzieshill High School campus to create a community campus as has been suggested by the Save Menzieshill High School group.

“I hope he will support a proposal to engage with this proposal now.”

Mr Hunter has consistently argued that the proposed transfer of pupils to Harris Academy is nothing to do with budgetary savings but in response to a falling school roll that would make it increasingly difficult to meet the educational needs of children.

For live updates from tonight’s meeting, visit www.thecourier.co.uk from 6pm.