FRESH plans to change the school system in the Dulverton area from three tiers to two are being put forward by the Governing Body of the Exmoor Federation.

The new Governing Body has reviewed the situation following a previous consultation held last year.

They have concluded that a two tier system is in the best interests of the children in the face of future budget constraints.

Somerset County Council will now be asked to consult with the community for a second time.

The proposals could see Kingsmead, a school in the Taunton Deane district which takes children from the age of 11, widen its catchment area to include youngsters in the Dulverton Middle School catchment.

Alan Jones, chair of Governors, said: “We believe that the current three tier system is not sustainable and not offering the best educational opportunities to our children.

"We will, therefore, now begin the necessary processes, including consultation, with a view to delivering a two tier system by the beginning of the 2016 Autumn Term.

“Whilst we must retain an open mind on the final decision until the results of the consultation are known, we will not be sitting on the fence but will actively promote the proposed change as being right for the future education of our children.”

Cllr Frances Nicholson, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for Children and Families and Local Member for Dulverton and Exmoor, said: “We support the Governing Body with their desire to do the very best for children in the area.

"I encourage as many parents as possible to have their say once the consultation opens."

Jan Ross, a former teacher who was heavily involved in the campaign to save the school, accepts that this time the change may be inevitable.

“Unfortunately things have changed significantly and due to the financial situation it seems there is no other option.

“But even so I am sad to see it has ended up this way, I am also concerned for the future of Exford School as well,” she said.

The consultation will run over six weeks and is due to start later in the autumn.