Preston academy consultation branded a “farce”

The current consultation over Fulwood High School and Arts College is a “farce” according to anti-academy campaigners.

Opponents say the ad undermines the current consultation over the controversial plan which is not due to end until December 19th. Parents, students, staffs and residents were invited by Lancashire Council to offer their opinions on the proposed plans for September 2009. If the plans go a head Fulwood High would be replaced by North Preston Academy and will be independently run by proposed sponsor Charles Dunstone, CEO of the Carphone Warehouse.

Criticism stirred after an advert appeared in the Times on 13th November advertising for a new head teacher for the planned academy. According to the advert applicants should apply “as soon as possible” and would receive a “generous remuneration package”.

Councillor Michael Lavalette, an opponent of the plans said “It suggests that the consultation is a complete and utter farce. We have been banned from handing out leaflets and including them in the consultation pack. If you were to read the consultation package you would think that there are no doubts about academies.”



Councillor Vali Patel, who will be making the ultimate decision about the proposed plans, brushed aside claims that he’d made up his mind over the matter. “The reaction is understandable, but the advert does not make the consultation any less credible. Lancashire County Council did not advertise for a new head, it was the sponsor. People can still make their presentations and I can still be persuaded, if arguments carry enough weight.”