Last updated at 16:21, Tuesday, 31 July 2012

SAVED Chetwynde pupils, staff and supporters celebrate their success JOE RILEY

THE community successfully rallied together to keep the only independent school in Furness open.

Chetwynde School, in Barrow, was saved from closure and after the summer holidays it will be welcoming its students back for the new academic year.

Its headmaster said this is not only great news for the pupils and their families, but for Furness as a whole – particularly local business and industry.

The future of the table-topping Cumbrian school is secure after a benefactor, backed by local business owners, agreed to buy the school and its building for educational use.

The former governors had announced that the Rating Lane school would close in July because of the falling pupil numbers.

But a rescue bid was launched. The Chetwynde Support Group, made up of parents who are directors in business and industry, leading to a fantastic effort to raise £490,000, and create a sustainable business plan to take the school forward.

A new governing body is now in place and the school’s bursary fund has been boosted, which is helping the school become more accessible.

Headmaster Russell Collier, said: “Whatever people’s opinions are of an independent education, it is incredibly important for the future development and growth of the area that the choice of an independent education remains.

“The option of an independent school within a local community can help in the recruitment of people within businesses, whether it is prospective employees moving in from outside the area, or whether it is helping retain present employees. It is about giving people choice.”

Mr Collier said Chetwynde is also a key employer with 60 staff in full-time and part-time roles, and that the school is now in strong position.

He added: “Chetwynde is an exceptional school which provides academic excellence and the opportunity for children to find out where their talents lie.”

First published at 16:29, Wednesday, 25 July 2012
Published by http://www.in-cumbria.com