Grammar' schools' merger decision

    PLANS to merge sixth forms at Dover's two grammar schools could be the first step towards the two schools joining.
    Governors at the Boys' Grammar have announced their idea to leave the present school site and move into Castlemount School when it closes next year.
    With the two schools closer together, sixth formers could share classes without having to cross the busy town centre.
    The governors of the girls' school have welcomed this idea and the two schools are now hoping to win the backing of County Council education chiefs.
    Pupil numbers at the two schools have been falling and both governing bodies have been worried about a possible drop in education standards if the schools are forced to shed staff.

Resources

    Governors believe the best way to secure grammar school education in Dover would be to pool their resources, particularly for sixth formers.
    "If successful, a joint sixth form could be the first step towards the eventual joining together of both schools," chairmen of both governing bodies said on Tuesday.
    The County Council will be asked to give assurances about necessary building work at Castlemount and the provision of games and sporting facilities if the move is completed.
    If the Schools' Subcommittee agrees at its meeting on November 14, the two schools have promised to organise a full consultation programme with parents and the public before a final decision is taken, probably next spring.