Laura Sharman 22 April 2016

County warns academies plan could impact on vulnerable children

West Sussex County Council has added its voice to the growing opposition against government plans to convert all schools into academies.

Leader of the council, Louise Goldsmith, has warned that the plans will make it harder for all councils to fulfil their statutory duties to provide enough school places and protect vulnerable children.

In a letter to the education secretary, Ms Goldsmith said: 'Other concerns were raised about the council’s ability to fulfil current and residual statutory responsibilities, financial efficiency and the possibility of a very bureaucratic system being imposed.

'Above all else there was a sense that good outcomes for children and young people were not driving the proposed reforms – especially for the most vulnerable children.'

She added that 82% of the county schools were currently rated good or outstanding, so there was no real need to force change.

The Local Government Association has also warned the plans 'defied reason' as there is no evidence that schools performed better in the hands of academies.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner