Yahoo News Parents react as Monkseaton High School faces closure due to cash and pupil number concerns
Residents have reacted as Monkseaton High School faces a potential closure due to money issues and pupil numbers. The Whitley Bay school's potential shutdown has led to a significant reaction, with people sharing their thoughts on Facebook.
North Tyneside Council has launched a public consultation to find alternatives, and the school could close by August 31, 2026, if no other solution is identified. The reasons behind the potential closure are low birth rates, parental choice and a predicted deficit of £7m.
One commenter on Facebook had this to say: "Such a shame! This school was a godsend for my daughter. Teachers were brilliant too, always kept me informed on everything."
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Another, who's child attends the school, said: "I got an email from the school today as my daughter goes here. Just as she will be starting her GCSEs she's gonna have to move."
A third, who is in a similar position, added: "My daughter just started in September, and she too will be starting her GCCE's. She's in bits, as are we, and if I'd known I would have not have sent her there."
A further commenter, reminiscing about their own time at the school, said: "15 years ago to the day we were packing to move into this fabulous new space. It's such a shame - very sad."
Some are also questioning what will happen next, with a commenter saying: "So where will kids go from all new homes being built? And where are children going at the moment?"
North Tyneside Council has invited people to share these views on the potential closure, and what alternative ideas they have to keep the school operating. The consultation can be found here, with a deadline of 12pm on October 30.
Following the consultation, if no viable alternatives are presented, North Tyneside Council would look to announce an outcome in January 2025.
