Education: council outlines its vision

OLDHAM has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform the lives of its young people for generations.

That was the message from council-leader Howard Sykes as he launched a presentation on the £230 million plans to rebuild, replace or refurbish all of the borough’s secondary schools.

Around 75 attended the Queen Elizabeth Hall yesterday where there were three hour-long talks about the investment and how it would equip teenagers will the skills needed in the modern world.

Question and answer sessions followed and people could find out more from information stands.

Statutory consultation runs from today until November 15 and events will be held in 15 schools from October 1.

Councillor Sykes said: “We have pledged to listen before we make any decisions, but one decision has already been made: things will change because what we have got is not good enough.

“Not everyone will agree with all our proposals and many people will like some aspects of it and not others.

“Our job is to try to make the right decision about transforming educational opportunity for all our children.”

Banners

The most controversial aspect of Building Schools for the Future (BSF) is replacing five schools with three academies on new sites run by sponsors.

Around 40 anti-academy protesters gathered outside during the afternoon waving placards and banners.

Stuart Paulley from Oldham Campaign Against Academies said: “We are very concerned they won’t let us put the opposing point of view at the consultation events.

It’s not true consultation. I think it’s appalling.”

However, Alun Francis, service director for transforming learning, said the Government was clear that academies were a key part of BSF and that they would bring an extra £21 million.

Oldham has also agreed key aspects to its academies such as non-business sponsors, not including post-16 provision, not selecting pupils, and the transfer of staff terms and conditions.

Councillor Kay Knox, cabinet member for children, young people and families, added: “There are parts of the academy system I was vehemently against. But I think we have moved a long way from that with what’s in these proposals.”

Oldham has to complete its outline business case by January. People can complete a feedback form.

To get one, phone 0161- 770 3094, write to The BSF project team, Oldham Council, FREEPOST, RRXE-JYCL-BELC, Level 10, Civic centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT.

Or they can visit www.oldham.gov.uk/bsf or e-mail bsf@oldham.gov.uk