ASSURANCES have been given that the future of dozens of rural schools is safe.
In a report on a draft policy on small schools in North Yorkshire, County education director Cynthia Welbourn said: "They are valued by their communities and are a local asset, often providing much-needed facilities.
"They are an essential part of educational provision in this highly rural county."
Miss Welbourn said that school rolls were expected to fall from 86,000 to 83,000 by 2008 and that there was insufficient housing development planned to offset the impact.
But she said the lower numbers would enable a range of innovations to be pursued in schools. The education authority was about to introduce the Government's Primary Learning Networks strategy, which involves primary schools working together.
Headteachers have been consulted on the draft policy, with many highlighting funding issues and calling for increased collaboration between schools. However, transport between schools was a problem which, said Miss Welbourn, the council was aware of.
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