A TINY North East school with a rich history is taking charge, going on the front foot to ensure its future.
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Upper Sandy Creek Primary School is implementing a survival plan in its continuing struggle to stay open despite a low number of enrolments.
With a current enrolment of six students, it has managed to continue to be the little school that could ever since its beginnings in 1891.
But the school council has recognised long-term survival is very much dependant on boosting student numbers.
Upper Sandy Creek Primary School principal Matthew Vincent says there has been no pressure from the Department of Education to close the doors, but more an acceptance of the realities of the school’s situation.
Other schools in the same boat, with less than 10 students, include Talgarno, Stanley and Mitta primary schools.
There were discussions last year about closing Talgarno Primary School, but the move was resisted and things are looking up.
The current number of four students will almost triple next year to about 11.
With small schools often playing a role as important hubs within their communities, the proactive approach to boost student numbers is in the best interests of all.
