Rutland County Council has announced plans to restructure its school sports program, which could lead to significant cuts in services. The council aims to consolidate its resources and focus on supporting the most vulnerable members of the community.
The changes, which are part of a broader reorganisation of council services, will see the introduction of a new "Communities and Prevention" service. This service will combine libraries, leisure facilities, and family support services under a single umbrella, with a focus on promoting physical, emotional, and social well-being.
The council's current school sports program, which is partially funded by Sport England, is set to be reduced. The council has stated that it can no longer afford to subsidise the program at its current level and is seeking to develop a more sustainable and inclusive model.
Local school leaders have expressed their disappointment and frustration with the changes. Catmose College principal Stuart Williams has described the situation as "unacceptable," criticising the council for informing schools of the changes after the start of the academic year.
The council has invited schools to submit expressions of interest to Sport England to take on the role of coordinating the school sports program. However, the future of the program remains uncertain, and it is unclear what impact the changes will have on the opportunities available to young people in Rutland.
