National Governors Association writes to Nicky Morgan
The National Governors’ Association has written a letter to Nicky Morgan, Secretary of State for Education, outlining concerns about compulsory academisation and the removal of the requirement for elected parent governors on the boards of academies.
The letter started by quoting Nicky Morgan’s speech from the NGA conference last summer; “When I was campaigning during the election I made it clear that, if I returned as Education Secretary, I would ensure that schools had a period of calm and stability that would give the reforms of the last government – particularly in the crucial areas of curriculum and qualification reform – a chance to bed in. I know that this is something you will welcome.”
The letter stated that where schools were performing well, governing boards were best placed to make the decision on whether converting to academy would improve pupil’s outcomes. Emma Knights also raised a concern about the recommendation that parents are no longer reserved a place on a governing board.
The letter stated that parents are an important part of the governing board and that meaningful engagement with parents, staff and the wider community is vital.
Councillor Phil Bateman said ” These reforms are unwanted by the education profession, and the National Governors Association has now made their position clear. The Education Secretary should heed the advice being given and ‘back off’ from these ill thought out political plans to make all schools Academies!”
The Education Secretary should heed the advice being given and ‘back off’ from these ill thought out political plans to make all schools Academies!”
