Rural schools could lose out as a result of the Sustainable Schools Policy launched by the Northern Ireland's government, Ulster Farmers Union has stated.
The primary objective of the policy is to ensure that all children get a first class education in fit for purpose facilities, regardless of background or where they live.
UFU deputy president, Ivor Ferguson, said that while the availability of high quality education across Northern Ireland was crucial, policies needed to reflect the reality of life in rural areas.
“The statement does not mention the Executive’s rural proofing policy or the Rural White Paper.
“This concerns us, and we need to be reassured that these policies have been taken account of in drawing up the proposals.
“Given the small size of many rural schools, the policy has the potential to disproportionately impact rural communities,” said Mr Ferguson.
The UFU says that while it accepts the importance of educational attainment, it is also important that policies take account of the wider well-being of children.
“Living in a rural community is very different from life in an urban area. In cities, children can walk to schools and other amenities, but in rural areas they often have to travel long distances for the same opportunities.
“Closing schools in rural areas could mean a child will have longer distances to travel, and this will ultimately impact their social, physical and emotional well-being,” said Mr Ferguson.
'Develop rural areas and communities'
The union met recently with officials from the Department of Education around this issue and will be feeding in its views to the consultation.
“The Rural White Paper sets out a commitment from the Executive to develop rural areas and support rural communities.
“We will be urging the Minister and the Executive to ensure this is fully reflected in the sustainable school plans,” said the UFU deputy president.
In comments the minister has made it clear that he is prepared to close schools. Instead, the UFU says he should 'exhaust' every other option before closing a school in a rural area.
“These schools are a significant part of a rural community. They have potential to enhance rural communities.
“This is an opportunity for the minister to display radical thinking by helping to support these schools.
“If he does so, they can deliver more for their communities. In turn, this will make them more viable and sustainable,” concluded Mr Ferguson.
