PARENTS and pupils are set to protest the proposed closure of Parkfield School.

As reported, the Reach South Academy Trust announced that it had submitted plans to the Department for Education for the school’s closure.

This would involve the majority of year groups at the end of this academic year, just five weeks away.

Only the current Year 10 pupils would remain at the school heading into the next academic year, so they can complete Year 11 and their GCSE courses.

However, the closure of the school has been met with anger by the school community.

Former MP, Sir Christopher Chope, expressed his sadness and anger at the timing of the announcement, saying he feels ‘helpless’ and unable to help those impacted.

Parents said they were ‘disgusted’ by the decision.

Now, the community has organised a protest outside the school gates on Sunday, June 30.

A spokesperson for those set to protest said: “To all of you incredible parents, caregivers, children, families, staff, friends, furry companions and even the goldfish.

“Let’s all come together to help save our beloved and vital school.”

Organisers have encouraged protestors to bring banners, signs and horns to the protest.

They hope that the school can continue under the management of a new academy trust, as they aim to keep the school open.

Last week, BCP Council advised parents of pupils at the school to not apply for new school places, before they are allocated one in the transition plan.

Parents were written to last week with details of the next steps, the council said.

The decision to close the school is still subject to a listening period, which will last a total of four weeks.

Comments and contributions for the listening period can be sent to listening@reachsouth.org.

The trust said the decision was announced with such late notice for the end of term as the decision had to be made by the secretary of state for education and the department.

The protest will take place at 10am on Sunday, June 30.