Headteacher backs education minister over new high school progress

Cregeen has 'worked hard behind the scenes' for replacement school

The education minister has been praised for his 'hard work behind the scenes' to ensure a replacement Castle Rushen High School is built.

In a letter to Castletown Commissioners, headteacher Keith Winstanley says Graham Cregeen has tried 'to the best of his ability within his political remit' to progress the project.

At a local authority meeting last month, commissioner Jimmy Cubbon vented his frustration at the minister over the time it has taken to construct a new high school.

Mr Winstanley's correspondence was received by the Castletown board at a meeting this week (5 August).

He shares their concerns over a 'tangible lack of progress', but insists plans are 'very much in the hands of the Treasury'.

It's understood Alfred Cannan's department is currently considering 'briefing documentation' for the project, with the final cost of the new school has yet to be agreed.