The Department for Education (DfE) has rejected an application by Irlam and Cadishead College to convert to academy status. Last year, a campaign was launched against the school's plans, and local councillor and Assistant Mayor, Roger Jones, wrote to the Head calling for a ballot of parents and criticising a lack of `principles' at the heart of current education (see Salford Star article – click here).
"I am delighted at the decision of the DfE not to support Irlam and Cadishead College's request to become a stand-alone academy" he told the Salford Star "My understanding is that the main reason behind this decision relates to performance levels and progression measures being below national averages. Therefore the College does not meet the criteria established for conversion to be a stand-alone academy.
"I want to place on record my thanks to Irlam and Cadishead Labour Party and the trade unions for their help with the co-ordination of our campaign" he added "I hope the College governors, local Councillors, trade unions and the local community can now work together to improve the performance levels at the college over the next two to three years."
The trade unions were equally pleased…
"The announcement that the Irlam and Cadishead College is not going to be privatised as an academy school, is good news for the staff, the pupils and the community" said Judith Elderkin of Salford NUT "They will all benefit if the school remains part of the Salford family of schools and not run from Whitehall by Michael Gove."
Salford City UNISON Assistant Branch Secretary, Diane Ogg, also welcomed the decision…
"This is one hell of a good start to the New Year, an excellent piece of news" she said "I'm relieved and happy for the staff and pupils of the school and for the wider community that justice has been done. Well done all members and the Anti Academies Alliance who supported the fight to help stop the transfer."
The news from Irlam and Cadishead College is in sharp contrast to events at Clarendon Road Primary School in Eccles – see here for details
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