Flintshire School Closures: Controversial Catholic School Merger Sparks Community Outcry

The Proposal for School Closures

Four Catholic schools in Flintshire could close under new plans to create a single 3-18 all-through Catholic school in Flint. The proposal, part of Flintshire County Council’s school modernisation programme, will be considered by Cabinet later this month, with a formal consultation expected if the plans are approved. The affected schools are St Anthony’s Catholic Primary in Saltney, St David’s in Mold, St Richard Gwyn Catholic High School, and St Mary’s in Flint.

Why School Closures Are Necessary

Under the current proposal, St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School is set to close by September 2026 due to declining pupil numbers, which have made it increasingly difficult to sustain the school. Chief officer for Education Claire Homard explained the need for change: “We currently have a significant issue with surplus places, which is unsustainable in the long term.” The new school would be built on the existing sites of St Richard Gwyn and St Mary’s in Flint, bringing primary and secondary education together under one roof.

Investment and Partnership

The Council is working in partnership with the Catholic Diocese of Wrexham and the Welsh Government on the project, which aims to address the issue of surplus places and ensure a sustainable future for Catholic education in the county. More than £140 million has been invested in Flintshire’s school estate over the past decade as part of the Council’s modernisation programme, which aims to provide high-quality, inspiring learning environments for pupils and staff.

Community Response and Concerns

“The Diocese, the school’s governing body and the council agree that it has reached a tipping point in terms of its viability and sustainability because of very low pupil numbers and significant budgetary and operational challenges,” she said. However, parents have expressed significant concerns about the closures. Parents were quick to express anger, saying the closure of St Anthony’s would “create a void” in the local community and disproportionately affect low-income families. Multiple petitions have been launched by concerned parents, with families worried about travel distances and the impact on children with additional learning needs.

What This Means for Families

The Flintshire school closures represent a significant shift in Catholic education provision across the county. While council officials emphasise the need for modernisation and sustainability, families face difficult decisions about their children’s educational future. The consultation process continues, with parents, community members, and stakeholders encouraged to make their views known as the plans progress through official channels.