Oldfield School's future is safe.

Instead of being closing down as originally proposed by Bradford council in its schools reorganisation plans, Oldfield will join the new two-tier system as a primary school.

Education Secretary David Blunkett stepped in to retain the tiny school, as he felt its closure would have an adverse effect on the local community.

The school is now set to be extended to cater for 56 pupils aged four to 11 and admit eight pupils a year.

This decision was formerly approved at a meeting of Bradford's schools sub-committee last Wednes-day evening.

However, funding for the necessary alterations has not yet been secured.

A council education spokesman says: "Somebody will now ask the Secretary of State whether he is going to give us a grant or permission to borrow.

"One of the things said was that funding received so far was a combination."

Because this decision has come later than those made for other schools, there is concern that the necessary building will not be completed on time.

Other schools are supposed to be ready for September 2000.

The spokesman adds: "We would hope it won't be delayed now, so moves can go ahead on building work. We are pressing for a quick reply from the Department for Education."

The school held a special harvest assembly on Wednesday. Staff, parents and governors there were delighted at the news that the school would be retained.

Head-teacher Margaret Redpath says: "Everybody is feeling very positive and looking forward to the finance being approved by national government and the building work commencing.

"We look forward to receiving the funding."

But the whole process is subject to funding, something which has not yet been formally approved by the Department for Education.

Andrew Halley, a parent governor and vice chairman of the school's board of governors, feels there is no need for concern, though.

He says: "Estelle Morris (the schools minister) has obviously made a statement to keep the school open, because of the community aspect.

"To be quite honest, with her recommendation, Bradford council has taken it upon itself to say that she should provide the money - we are not concerned at all.

"We anticipate that she will keep her word. Between £150 million and £170 million is being allocated."

Parent Helen Mower, who lives in Oxenhope, has one child at the school, another starting next year and is expecting a third.

On the school staying open, she says: "It's fantastic - what we all wanted.

"It wouldn't be the same without this school. It's a nice atmosphere to come to on a daily basis.

"If you do have problems, they are dealt with properly and we are always having get-togethers.

"It's a nice old-fashioned school, which is good for the kids."

Oldfield was originally earmarked for closure by Bradford council, but a huge campaign was launched by villagers, staff and parents to keep it open.

MP Ann Cryer supported the efforts which finally won the agreement of the Government.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.