School placements

I am being made aware of serious misgivings about school placements in Christchurch. Whilst this is not in any way part of my responsibility I am concerned that so many parents of young children are expressing concerns that their choice of local schools close to their homes are not possible due to lack of places. I find this quite extraordinary considering that I am also told that projections for increases in new homes would not require new schools. Not knowing enough about the subject I have asked my port folio holder for Children and young people to establish accurate figures that describe the situation from which basis I can influence those whose responsibility it is to see that this is not a matter of stress and concern to Christchurch residents. It seems to me to be quite ridiculous that two siblings of similar age are separated, one going to a local school and the other to a school five miles away. I am sure someone will respond with some technical reason as to why this is happening but I can remember saying that we as a group support local schools for local children and I have no intention of altering that position. Meanwhile if you have spoken to me about this please be patient whilst I find out what is going on.