Norfolk: Consultation begins on plan for new Catholic primary school

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The Diocese of East Anglia has begun a consultation this week to open a new Catholic primary school in Swaffham on the site of the current Sacred Heart School, a fee-paying school that is due to close at the end of the summer term 2019.

The consultation will run until February 15 and asks parents, staff and the local community for their views about opening a new Catholic primary school.

Helen Bates, Assistant Director for Schools, said: "The possibility of opening a non-fee paying Catholic primary school in Swaffham is extremely exciting and a very rare opportunity. We have not opened any new Catholic schools in Norfolk in decades. The nearest Catholic schools to Swaffham are in King's Lynn and Costessey in Norwich, which many parents feel is too far for primary-aged children to travel.

"If successful, this new school will build on the long tradition of excellent education and community service at Sacred Heart School. We need to hear from as many people as possible during this consultation to understand if there is widespread support for the new primary school."

Drop-in sessions and an open day being held at Sacred Heart School where Diocesan officers will be available to answer questions and provide further information.

The final decision on whether to open the new Catholic primary school will be made by Norfolk County Council and is expected by the end of April 2019.

To see a consultation document on the Swaffham school visit: www.rcdea.org.uk/sacredheartva