SIR,

There have been a number of letters in the Monmouthshire Beacon recently concerning Monmouth Comprehensive School and the suitability of its buildings.

Even though none of these letters has identified the author I feel it necessary now to respond.

As director of education, I acknowledge that the majority of the buildings at Monmouth Comprehensive School need replacement.

I also recognise that through the efforts of the students, staff and leadership of the school, performance has been excellent despite this.

This was recognised in particular in the inspection of the school last year by Estyn, where it was awarded Grade 1s in all seven key questions (the first school in Monmouthshire to achieve this).

The authority will be making its submission under the 21st Century Schools initiative to the Welsh Assembly Government by 10th December.

Through this, we hope to secure funding to enable us to begin the replacement of Monmouth Comprehensive School with buildings that are suitable for learning in the 21st Century.

Previously, the authority has made clear its commitment to replacing inappropriate secondary school buildings by indicating that it would find its share of the capital costs for Monmouth Comprehensive School.

We would anticipate a response from the Welsh Assembly Government during the summer of 2011 to our proposals.

Can I correct the author of the letter published on 1st December concerning the possible purchase of land?

Although the authority would consult with the governors of the school, any decisions taken with regard to the siting of the school would remain the responsibility of the local authority.

Any criticism of the school governors in this respect is unfair.

Andrew Keep, chief officer

(Directorate for Children and Young People, Monmouthshire County Council)