A parent-teacher group has called on education leaders and the Premier to meet with families to discuss the future role of middle schools.

The PTA for Elliot Primary School in Devonshire, which said it was speaking on behalf of families across the island’s four parish schools, demanded the meeting after expressing “deep dissatisfaction” over learning that years 7 to 9 will not be kept at parish schools.

The move, the group said, would force parents to send their children to one of three middle schools.

Elliot’s PTA added: “We are extremely upset and frustrated by the constant changes being made to the education system.

“Our children deserve consistency, thoughtful planning and decisions that are made with parental input — not repeated system-wide shifts that create uncertainty and anxiety for students and families alike.”

The announcement came as the education ministry told parents yesterday that primary schools would revert to teaching years between P1 and P6, while middle schools would teach year 7 to 9, formerly M1 to M3, but be renamed.

Parents at Francis Patton Primary School and Dellwood Middle School expressed frustration and confusion over the changes — feelings shared by Elliot Parish School Parents.

The PTA said the “abrupt nature” of the announcement and frequent restructuring caused “significant distress among families”.

The group added that parents were concerned about the missing consultation, as well as the lack of stability and its long-term impact on children’s academic and emotional wellbeing.

Elliot’s PTA called on the Minister of Education, Commissioner of Education and David Burt, the Premier, to meet with parish school parents to give parents a chance to voice concerns, ask questions and discuss the future of education before any moves were made.

The group said: “This is not simply about school placement. It is about trust, collaboration and ensuring that decisions affecting our children’s futures are made with care, evidence and genuine community involvement.”

A town hall open forum is planned for Monday at Elliot Primary School in Devonshire at 6pm.

The Ministry of Education and Premier have been contacted for a response.