Having previously opposed plans to close a Mold Catholic School, Clwyd MS Darren Millar is even more convinced it should remain open following a visit there last week. 

Darren visited St David's Catholic School on Friday following an invitation from the Chair of Governors, Emma Baker. 

Darren met with Emma and Mrs Claire Morris, the Headteacher and toured the school, chatted with staff and pupils, and took part in a game of bean bag throwing!

Flintshire County Council and the Diocese of Wrexham are proposing to close St David's as part of a plan to merge four Catholic schools into a single 3-18 "super-school" in Flint.

Darren has opposed the proposed closure, stating that is does not represent value for money for taxpayers, education standards at the school are good, and closing the school will mean that many pupils will have to travel further to receive a Catholic education. 

Now, having visited the school and seen first-hand the good quality education, sense of community, and dedication amongst staff that exists there, Darren is even more convinced that closing it would be a bad move. 

He said: 

"Having been established in 1871, St David's is one of the oldest Catholic Schools in Wales and it was abundantly clear to me on my visit that it still has a bright future. 

"Rather than pursuing an expensive and disruptive reorganisation, it would make far more sense to invest in the current site, end the uncertainty for staff and families, and celebrate the wonderful heritage of 155 years of Catholic education in Mold. 

"It is a successful school with a proud history, committed staff, good education standards, and families clearly value the school enormously . 

"Closing the school risks forcing children to travel much further every day, which is not in the best interests of pupils or parents. 

"There also appears to have been no consideration to the loss of the playgroup that operates at the school. The closure of the school would lead to this childcare being lost at a time when we need to be expanding choice and opportunities for free childcare for working parents. 

"From what I witnessed during my visit, I am more convinced than ever that St David's has a strong future and deserves the opportunity to continue serving the community for generations to come."