COOPERATION IN THE COUNTRYSIDE - SMALL PRIMARY-SCHOOL CLUSTERS

This paper Examines the role and significance of co-operation (cluster ing) between small primary schools in rural areas across England and W ales. By increasing the range of resources available and enlarging sta ff and pupil peer groups, clustering can counter many of the challenge s that confront curriculum delivery in small schools. However, effecti ve inter-school liaison can be impeded by fears surrounding the loss o f individual school autonomy and logistical barriers caused by the nat ure of rural localities. Just as significantly, reductions in local au thority support for cluster schemes combined with increased incentives to compete for pupils may be curtailing useful co-operation. Findings from a sample of small-school headteachers suggest, however, that des pite recognition of these detrimental pressures, clustering is likely to remain central to a wider set of local coping strategies which are making a significant contribution to the viability of rural education provision.