Lack of school places
by Anna White
awhite@thekmgroup.co.uk
More than 50 families from close-knit
communities did not secure a place for their children at ANY of
their school choices.
The affected parents, who are mainly from
Grove Green and Bearsted, applied for spaces at the three nearest
schools, all of which were heavily over subscribed.
Madginford Park Infant School, in Merton Road,
had 90 available seats in its classrooms and 135 people listed it
as their top choice. It was a second option for 114 hopefuls and
third for 59 applicants.
St John’s Church of England Primary School, in
Provender Way, Grove Green, received 41 first choice applications
for its 30 spots, another 41 listed it as their second preference
and 77 as their third. 
A total of 115 parents chose Thurnham Church
of England Infant School, The Landway, Bearsted, as their
favourite, 96 had their fingers crossed for second choice and 37
put it as their last selection.
Twenty-five families were turned away from
Madginford, nine were not offered a spot at St John’s and 17 lost
out on a space at Thurnham which can accommodate an intake of
90.
Gary Cooke, deputy cabinet member for
education, learning and skills, said: “I appreciate how
disappointed families who were not offered one of their preferred
schools will be."
Are you one of those affected in Grove Green
and Bearsted? Contact the newsroom on 01622 695 666 or email
messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk.
13/04/12
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