PUBLIC consultations on the closure of two Church of England schools have been launched by Surrey County Council.

The Diocese of Guildford said it remained “fully committed” to supporting church schools in Surrey, Hampshire and Kingston, following proposals to close Green Oak Primary and Nursery School, in Godalming, and Ripley Primary School, in Woking.

Diocese education director Alex Tear said: “We understand the decision to consult on closure will be upsetting for the children, parents and staff as well as the wider community.

“In certain situations there is no easy solution to secure the future of a school, despite extensive efforts to support the school’s work to improve educational outcomes for its pupils.”

“Launching consultations on proposals for closure of two church schools on the same day is very unusual.

“There are specific circumstances related to each school and it is important to stress there are no further church schools under consideration of closure.

“The decision to open a public consultation into closure is never taken lightly and only comes after considerable effort to improve the school.”