CONTROVERSIAL proposals to change a city's schools system will be decided next week.
Newcastle City Council will vote on plans to get rid of three middle schools in the outer west of the city. The plans would spell the end for the three-tier education system in the city.
The three under threat are Chapel House, Chapel Park and Throckley middle schools, who have falling pupil numbers.
The authority's cabinet meets on Wednesday and is expected to follow the recommendations of its officers and close the schools, despite protests from parents.
If the proposals are agreed, it will also mean the expansion of Knop Law, Milecastle, Newburn Manor, Throckley, Walbottle Village and Westerhope first schools, and Walbottle Campus.
Philip Turner, director of education and libraries, said: "The Local Education Authority has a duty to ensure that children throughout the city receive a sound education.
"We want to provide a high-quality education system that will enable all children to reach their maximum potential."
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