AS Stepaside School looks set to stay open, local MP Henry Tufnell called it “absolutely fantastic news,” and “a massive victory for our community.”

“Following the serious concerns raised by local parents, residents, and community representatives, Pembrokeshire County Council has listened and taken the right decision to keep Stepaside School open.

“When a community stands together, raises its voice, and refuses to be ignored, this is exactly what can be achieved.

“A huge thank you to everyone who made their voice heard, attended meetings, and backed this campaign. This shows just what we can accomplish when we look out for one another and stand up for our children's future.”

Local Councillors Alistair Cameron and Alec Cormack are delighted at the decision by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet in favour of keeping Stepaside School open.

Following the Cabinet decision, Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, has issued a Notice of Motion to go to Full Council on July 16 which, if approved by Council, rescinds the earlier decision on December 12, 2025 to consult on closing Stepaside School and merge it with Saundersfoot School on the existing Saundersfoot School Site. Already many councillors have indicated their support for the Notice of Motion and Councillors Cameron and Cormack believe it should get strong backing at Full Council on July 16.

Cllr Alistair Cameron said: “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Mr Jones, Headteacher at Stepaside School, and all of his colleagues at the school for their continued dedication and hard work to the school children during this very unsettling time. Thank you also to the parents, governors and local residents for their magnificent support for our local school. I never believed it was right to consider closing Stepaside School with its modern building, stable pupil numbers of over 100 and excellent report from the school inspectors, Estyn. The school staff can now concentrate on what they do best, which is to provide excellent education in a caring and nurturing environment.”

Cllr Alec Cormack welcomed the Cabinet decision saying “This decision removes the cloud of reorganisation hanging over both Saundersfoot and Stepaside / Kilgetty. Now both head teachers, staff and governing bodies can continue to deliver excellent education to their local communities.”