THE SCHOOLS commissioner will be visiting Redditch to talk to headteachers, governors and parents.
Pank Patel will be coming to the town on Friday, May 15, in a bid to alleviate concerns raised by the decision to change the current age ranges.
It follows a meeting with MP Karen Lumley where she voiced residents’ worries about Tudor Grange Academy Redditch and Ridgeway Middle School’s plans to become secondary schools taking children from the age of 12.
She said: “I came away happy from my meeting with the commissioner satisfied that he had what is best for Redditch schools and their pupils at heart,” said Mrs Lumley.
“He was left in no doubt as to how seriously I view this issue and the strength of feeling amongst my constituents.”
She added: “I have said all along local people must be consulted and a collaborative approach is absolutely required. That’s why I so vocally opposed these changes the last time around and why I organised the pyramid meetings to have all views aired.
“I made quite clear to the commissioner that an explanation on school places was needed quickly to give clarity to parents. I will be ensuring that the guarantees we need are made in the coming days. “
“I am pleased that he will be coming to meet with all those involved to discuss these issues at the earliest opportunity.
Whenever issues arise we can all shout from the side-lines, calling for this and calling for that, but we know from experience that what actually works is getting around a table, speaking to decision makers and concerned parties, finding out what matters to them, establishing the full facts and doing what is best for all of us.”
