Scrutiny group to look at academies

It would like to speak with a wide range of people, including teachers, school governors, parents, pupils, councillors, community groups and other interested parties.

Scrutiny will not be looking at any individual schools or the pros and cons of applying for academy status.

It will be focusing on the broader consultation issues and seeking to establish good practice for any schools who might wish to seek academy status in the future.

Chair of the scrutiny group, Coun Beryl Smith, said last night: “We would very much like to hear from anyone who wants to share their views with the scrutiny group about improving the current process for schools changing to academy status.

“We urge you to register your interest and attend one of our drop-in sessions,” Coun Smith added.

Anyone interested in taking part in the scrutiny review can get involved in a number of ways.

The group will be holding drop-in sessions at Huddersfield Town Hall on December 5 from 1pm until 4pm and Batley Town Hall on December 14 from 10am until 1pm for people to come along and speak with members of the scrutiny group and give their opinions.

Anyone who would like to attend these sessions should register their interest by contacting the scrutiny office on 01484 221864.

A questionnaire is also available to complete online by visiting the website: http://bit.ly/AcademiesReview and if anyone has any more information to share with the scrutiny group they can do so by emailing [email protected]

Anyone wishing to submit evidence must do so by December 14 this year.

Those who want more information about the review should contact a member of the scrutiny team by calling 01484 221864.