|
|
 |
| |
Could do better: Harsh critic of academies found wanting
• FIONA Millar’s polemic on city academies, masquerading as a book review, is factually incorrect and out of date on many points (Must do better: how academies are failing, May 3).
The new schools that are opening in disadvantaged areas are starting to be successful according to the National Audit Office, the Office for Standards in Education, the Department for Education and Skills, pupils, parents and many of the local education authorities that have embraced the scheme. Parents in particular may be unimpressed by Ms Millar’s assumption that they do not know what to look for in a school.
The programme has been held back by many challenges, not least those created by conservative pessimists who are opposed to radical change, such as Fiona Millar.
Those stubborn idealogues who refuse to take responsibility for the persistent under-performance of schools in their area have not come up with any constructive alternatives.
Even in a reasonable area for schools, like Camden, there is nothing to fear from a new academy providing additional choice and places for our young people.
Many early critics have later become supportive of the new schools, once they learn what is really happening inside them – better attendance, better facilities, improved leadership, improved management and governance. This has started to generate solid evidence of better results by the students.
Isn’t this what we want from schools? The entrenched opponents need to open their eyes!
The National Audit Office provides credible and factual evidence for the early success of the programme, which is in its infancy and has a long way to go.
Trying to turn around failing schools that have suffered from years of neglect and poor management is a lengthy challenge but worth doing if children get a better education from it.
The involvement of successful people from many walks of life (most certainly not a “rag-bag” as Francis Beckett and Fiona Millar offensively snipe) has been shown to both inspire and support the teachers and pupils in academies.
The National Audit Office, and many other positive inspection reports, give the lie to Millar and Beckett’s objections and would be worthwhile reading for a fuller and more accurate assessment of this important programme of education reform.
ELEANOR STURDY
Regent’s Park Road
NW1 |
 |
|
| |
|
|
|
