Petition to save Monkseaton High School from potential closure reaches over 700 signatures
Following the news that Monkseaton High School faces potential closure by August 2026, a petition has been launched to help preserve the school
by Austen Shakespeare · ChronicleLiveA petition to save Monkseaton High School from potential closure has garnered over 700 signatures in just 48 hours.
On September 17, North Tyneside Council announced it had launched a six-week public consultation on the future of Monkseaton High School after it had exhausted options to keep the school going. The public has been called upon to submit their own ideas of feasible alternatives to closure online.
The local authority stated that the school's future is in question due to its predicted budget deficit of £7m by 2026, due to low local birth rates, and parental choice. At the last count according to North Tyneside Council, there are currently only 511 pupils in attendance at the school, which has a capacity of 964.
A Change.org petition was launched on September 18, asking the Whitley Bay community to "come together in the face of an alarming issue."
The petition continued: "Monkseaton High School plays a critical role in educating our rising generation, shaping their futures, and ultimately defining our society's pillars. The consequences of its closure will not only impact the students of this institution but will have far-reaching effects on the educational landscape of our region."
It adds: "Therefore, we urge the concerned authorities to reconsider their decision and protect our precious institution from closure."
The petition highlights concerns over the impact the closure could have on other schools in North Tyneside.
Julie Firth, Director of Children’s Services at North Tyneside Council said: “We believe everyone deserves the best possible education and we work hard to ensure the Borough has a high-quality and sustainable education system. By 2026, Monkseaton High School will have a deficit of £7m. Together with the school, we have done all we can over several years to reduce this gap and stabilise the school.
"The school staff are committed and offer pupils a good education, however, fewer parents are choosing to send their children to the school, which is having a financial impact. This is putting the education of pupils at risk, which has led to the decision to commence a consultation on the school’s future. This includes potential closure.
“This consultation is not something we take lightly. No decisions have been made and all residents are welcome to put forward their suggestions before any further decisions are made. As part of the consultation, we’ll be working with the school community directly, and additional views can be given on the Engagement section on the Council’s website.”
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