I know that a lot of debate has been sparked by the announcement of this review.

Hookergate’s position is very clear:

 we recognise that pupil numbers are dropping across both the Ryton and Hookergate catchment areas
 there is the opportunity for Gateshead Local Authority to get its hands on a significant amount of government money for a brand new state of the art school to serve all of us
 we believe that the best way to do this is through the proposed ‘Option B’ - a merger to form a new school on a new site which students, staff, parents and governors would enter as equal partners.

There is no doubt that the current Year 6 pupils will be affected, whatever school they join in September. Eventually, perhaps in two years’ time, the populations of Ryton and Hookergate will come together. This will be a challenge for all of us, whether a site move is involved or not.

It will be business as usual in September. We are fully staffed and ready to give your son or daughter an excellent start to their secondary education in a small school environment where we will get to know them well. Together we will prepare for the exciting opportunities offered by the change when it comes.

Several of our parent governors have sons or daughters in Year 6 and would be more than happy to speak to you about our perspective and our genuine optimism that these developments can offer a positive and exciting future for our pupils.

Telephone numbers available from the school.
Mr C Davis
Mrs R Lofthouse
Mrs S Raymond
Mrs E Stamp
Mrs S Whisler

I hope to see you at next Tuesday’s new intake evening, where no doubt there will be further discussion!

Yours sincerely

Peter Crabtree
Headteacher