PARENT power could save a York secondary school which is threatened with closure, according to its deputy headteacher.

Graham Reagan said time is running out to prevent the closure of Burnholme Community College, which, with a proposed intake of only 40 new pupils next year, needs more children to survive.

However, Mr Reagan said a recent meeting on the future of the school revealed parents in the area who recently put Burnhlome as a second choice for their children to attend in September could hold the key to saving the school.

He said: “It was made clear that if the school was able to attract just 30 more students from the current Year Six population of the city by March 1, we would stay open.

“We would continue to have improved GCSE results, we would continue to provide a good education and ensure our students meet national standards of achievement.”

He said the phased closure of the school, announced recently by City of York Council, meant students had been left feeling “demoralised, worthless and let down”.

He said: “I would simply ask the families of the 47 students who made Burnholme their second choice (and indeed those who made Burnholme their third choice) to think again, this time fully knowing the impact their choice could have on a strong and passionate community.

“They now have the power to save a school and save the heart of a community.”

A parents-only meeting will now be held in the school’s main hall at 6pm on Monday, in what could be a last-ditch attempt to keep the school open.

Mr Reagan said: “It is for Burnholme parents and parents of local primaries to discuss the future of the school.

“It is about giving those parents the chance to talk to each other and see whether we can try and get them on board to help us change the minds of 30 families.

“If those parents wish to take a further look around Burnholme at any time this week or find out how to change their preferences they simply need to contact the school and let us know on 01904 551800. And remember – use it or lose it.”