People in Bristol are being asked to comment on details of an ambitious £46 million investment programme for the city's primary schools.

The biggest single review of the primary sector for a generation includes completely rebuilding 10 primary schools, providing them with brand new buildings fit for teaching in the 21st century. A further 18 schools have been identified for refurbishment.

The proposals are being announced as part of a major review of primary education in the city, aimed at driving up standards of achievement.

Councillor Peter Hammond, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Cohesion and Raising Achievement, said: "This project is not just about improving school buildings, it is about transforming primary education in Bristol and continuing to raise standards of achievement.

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"Bristol schools are changing fast and we are working to make a real difference to children in our city, ensuring they receive the best possible education throughout their primary school years and beyond."

As well as improving the environment in which pupils learn, the review sets out to ensure primary schools are organised in the most effective way to meet the needs of local communities.

Population patterns in the city are changing rapidly and have resulted in a shortage of school places in some parts of the city, notably central and eastern areas, and surplus places in other areas on the edge of the city. Thirteen schools have been identified for expansion to meet demand for places.

New forms of organisation and partnerships between schools are also being proposed, to ensure schools are of a manageable size.

The review proposes 19 amalgamations, bringing infant and junior schools together into a single school, making the transition for children easier as they move through the school.

Some schools will form federations, where two or more schools share a single governing body. This can involve a mix of primary and secondary schools and ensures that schools work together more effectively, to share best practice and leadership.

(CD)