Stratford-on-Avon must not lose its schools

I brought a debate to Parliament on the importance of village schools and to campaign against the proposed closure of Great Alne Primary School by Reform-led Warwickshire County Council.

For many rural communities, the school is the heart of village life. It brings families together, supports children to thrive, and keeps communities alive.

Once a village loses its school, something irreplaceable is lost. 

It affects not just education, but transport, local services, community cohesion and whether young families can stay in the area.

In the debate, I spoke about the pressures facing rural schools, fluctuating pupil numbers, funding challenges, and the need for decisions to reflect the realities of rural life, not distant administrative convenience.

Village schools deserve support, stability and a future. I will continue making the case for Great Alne and for rural communities across Stratford-on-Avon.