Parents in the dark says dad

ANGRY parent Jon Kidd has attacked Waterhead Academy for not warning of the changes – and claims the school will penalise his son for non-attendance if he takes up a placement he found for him.

PARENT Jon Kidd says Waterhead Academy has not sent letters or warned parents about the changes.

He had already arranged a placement at an estate agent for his son Jordan (15).

And he claims a careers officer who works at the school, told him “it wouldn’t be a problem” to arrange his placement at any time of the year, providing he was happy to pay for it.

But after organising October 8 as the most suitable date with the estate agent — who said he would potentially offer Jordan a job if he proved himself — he claims the school told him Jordan would be penalised on his attendance record if he was away in term time.

Mr Kidd, from Bardsley, said: “This is not just about my son. How many parents out there are not aware their children will not be doing work experience? It’s really important and I’m going to take this to my MP.

“If parents can organise placements legitimately then they should be able to do it in term time. I’ve offered to pay for the placement and now I’m being penalised for organising something for my son.

“I was told if he does it in term time he will be penalised but the only appropriate time for the employer to have my son is in October.”

Waterhead Academy vice principal David Lancaster said: “Waterhead Academy is committed to ensuring all students attend school every day.

“The school has not been contacted by Jordan’s parents with regard to this matter, nor has it given any indication that Jordan’s request would be accepted.”

Positive Steps Oldham says it suggested placements should be during a school holiday period, but if a school or academy gave permission for it to be during term time, the request would be honoured.

Director Steve Murphy said: “We wouldn’t condone anyone taking their children out of school without permission.”


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