PUPILS COME OUT FIGHTING FOR SCHOOL

13 July 2005

Pupils at a closure-threatened Swansea school have handed in a petition of more than 1,000 names urging council bosses to have a rethink. The axe is set to fall on Dylan Thomas Community School with pupils transferring to Bishop Gore comprehensive in Sketty.

Parents had handed in a protest on Monday.They were followed by the children yesterday, backed by local councillors Vanessa Webb and Rhodri Thomas.

Councillor Webb said: "It's an excellent school and I don't think you should lightly consider closing such a successful school.

"It has a large number of children with disabilities who are very much included and integrated in the school. That's not something you can transplant.''

Annette Johnson, assistant head teacher, said she was very proud of her pupils.

"They have come here to hand over the petition and various letters they have written, as well as their response to the council's consultation document," she said.

"They feel very strongly about the school closing and are very worried about it."We are very proud of them," she added. "They have been absolutely tremendous. ''

Stephen Spencer, aged 13, of Gendros, said: "We are a good school. We may be small but we are friendly."

"My message to the council is this: don't close the school."