While Michael Gove continues to claim that there are hundreds of groups queueing up to set up their own ‘Free’ Schools, many of the first schools to be agreed by the DfE are already in trouble.
Rivendale Primary, a ‘Free’ School that is already enrolling pupils, has lost it’s proposed building in Hammersmith and Fulham after protests organised by local parents
Also in Hammersmith and Fulham the West London ‘Free’ School, led by Toby Young, has run into problems with a building and Young is now protesting that the DfE should be underwriting the costs of bidders to run his school.
This should be an encouraging sign to everybody who is campaigning against ‘Free’ schools, and wants to stand up for democratic and accountable schools for every child.
John Port School in Derbyshire to strike for 5 days against Academy proposal
NASUWT members in John Port school have already held 2 one day strikes against the Academy plans, and are to strike from Monday 28th February for 5 days.
Rush messages of support to dwilkinson@saintben.derby.sch.uk more here
Join the TUC March for the alternative
Saturday 26th March
The TUC is organising a national march and rally on 26 March 2011, in response to the government’s programme of fast and deep public spending cuts.
The Academies programme is a central plank in government strategy.
It is an attempt to destroy a democratic, planned, state education system and replace it with a two tier, market driven collection of independent schools at the mercy of education companies driven by profit.
Education Ministers have made it clear that they see Academies as a way to break down union influence in schools, and to end national pay bargaining and terms and conditions.
There is transport being organised from every city and town to join the demonstration.
Contact your trade union for transport details or contact the TUC at www.tuc.org.uk
Anti Academies Conference
How to fight Academies and ‘Free’ schools
Organised by South East Region TUC (SERTUC) and the Anti Academies Alliance
London, Saturday 11th June.
More details to follow.
Anti Academies Alliance Financial Appeal
The Anti Academies Alliance has launched a Financial Appeal to help build the opposition to Academies and ‘Free’ Schools.
Read our Appeal, and download the leaflet, herehttp://www.antiacademies.org.uk/Home/financial-appeal
How can the Anti Academies Alliance help your school?
We continue to be approached by schools asking us to help them campaign against Academy proposals that are being pushed on them.
The Anti Academies Alliance is happy to work with head teachers, governors, parents and staff to develop a campaign to prevent your school becoming an Academy.
Please contact the office if you need help.
Anti Academies DVD
We have an excellent new 13 minute DVD outlining the case against Academies and ‘Free’ Schools.
It is perfect for union meetings / parent meetings / campaign meetings.
If you would like a copy they are £10 to union groups / £2 to parent and campaign groups. We can produce bulk orders at a reduced price. Send orders to the office and we will despatch them with an invoice.
