Pupil numbers in the 11 to 16 year old age group are declining which would have left the four former secondary schools with unviable numbers and increased difficulties in recruiting specialist teachers and providing a broad curriculum and wide range of qualifications. By closing one secondary school and redeveloping the other three, the Department is better able to deliver an appropriate curriculum for students in the 21st century in modern, fit for purpose buildings with specialist teachers. The first stage of the reorganisation of secondary education was completed following the opening of the new St Sampson’s High School in September, 2008, and the closure of St Peter Port School in July, 2009. The redevelopment of Les Beaucamps High School on its existing site is now in the planning stages. Once this has progressed further, work will start on the planning for the redevelopment of La Mare de Carteret High School.