Lib Dem Statement on Possible 3-19 Academy involving St Christopher's and Oxford Schools (Oxfordshire Liberal Democrats)

Oxfordshire Liberal Democrats <info@oxfordshirelibdems.org.uk>

Lib Dem Statement on Possible 3-19 Academy involving St Christopher's and Oxford Schools

July 21, 2009 3:33 PM

Yet again the Conservative administration at County Hall have shown their contempt for local councillors and the public. The suggestion, emerging recently, that a new 3-19 academy could replace Oxford School and that St Christopher's Primary School might close, has been a bombshell for the communities involved.

There had been no previous information, let alone consultation, for the parents, staff, communities or councillors of East Oxford. The Tory administration, which holds no seats in the city on either the City or County Councils, appears to have decided that it knows best without troubling to ask anyone else. Much clearer information on what is being considered is urgently needed; a public meeting should be held to inform and listen to the local community.

On the education proposal, the jury is still out on the Oxford Academy replacing Peers School. Any proposal to have a 3-19 school would mean closure of not just St Christopher's but other primary schools as well - is this the real Tory agenda?

On the 3-19 idea itself, there are many obvious drawbacks to having such a wide age range on the same site.

Oxford residents deserve better from the administration at County Hall. The Tories claim to support local decision-making; let's see it in action please!