Radlett parents upset over the planned closure of an "inspiring" Aldenham nursery school, are campaigning to have it moved to Newberries Primary School in Radlett.

However, Hertfordshire county councillors, due to take a decision at a meeting last night, were advised against moving Wall Hall Nursery School to Radlett, on the grounds that existing places in Radlett were never totally filled.

The nursery, which has beacon status and 38 pupils, must move from its present site which is being sold by the University of Hertfordshire for housing. The county council leases the premises for the nursery attended by 12 children from Radlett, and two from Borehamwood and Shenley from the university.

The council's children, schools and families scrutiny committee was advised by council officers to consider the closure, to take place in December 2003, and to look at opening a new nursery class at Knutsford Primary School in Watford, where extra places were needed, whilst using existing nursery provision at St John's Infants School, and privately, to meet the needs of Radlett children.

The Parents of Wall Hall Nursery School campaign group wants Wall Hall nursery to continue in Radlett because of its special needs experience, and because it has been identified by the Government as one of the best performing schools nationwide.

Debbie Crombie, whose three-year-old son James has autism, said: "James has made excellent progress since starting at Wall Hall, and I am convinced this is a direct result of the support he has from their skilled, highly-trained teaching staff.

"It is very disappointing that, as the number of children with autism is on the rise, the council is considering closing one of the most experienced schools in the area."

Gaenor Morris, mother of four-year-old William, said: "William loves Wall Hall. It is a really inspiring school, and has helped make me a better parent, and William a happier child. The teachers just know what makes four-year-olds tick."

The views of the committee, along with others collected by Hertfordshire County Council during consultation, will be considered by the county council's cabinet on September 16.

June 17, 2002 17:00