Academy Sponsors tell DCSF one date and parents another.

Sponsors have told the Department for Children, Schools and Families that the consultation period for the proposed Academy replacing Unity College began on 25th November 2008. 

The earliest public notice we know of was newspaper advert on 11th December. Most parents did not receive any information until 19th/20th December. The consultation period gives only 7 school (working) days between meetings for parents to discuss the proposal. This is because the consultation period, which was set by the sponsors, falls across the christmas break. 

Many parents were completely unaware of the first meeting.

Last chance for parents to speak out

Parents opposed or for a Unity Academy have a last chance to tell the sponsors what they think. 6pm 7th Jan 2009 at Unity School. We say go and have your say! 

Local Authority send parents brochure on closing Unity School

Parents have been posted a brochure from the Local Authority about closing Unity College on April 14th and creating an Academy. Parents are asked reply with their views on closure and given last chance to attend a meeting on 7th Jan 2008 to give their opinion. We think brochure looks as though it has come from Academy.

Unity College Governors hold extraordinary meeting to discuss Academy

Governors at Unity College are to hold an extraordinary meeting at 5.30pm on Jan 5th 2009 at Unity College to discuss the proposed Academy. It is believed there is unrest amongst the Governors about the treatment of Principal Margaret Gwynne by the Diocese and quality of the Academy proposal. Apparently the Governors have not approved becoming an Academy, rather just that there should be consultation and questioning to see what parents, teachers and children think. Many Governors are worried about what they see as a sham consultation.

Governing Body learn of appointment of Academy Head from local media.

Governors at Unity College were surprised to learn of the appointment of Vanessa Ray via the local press. The Diocese of Peterborough did feel it necessary to bother inform the Governing Body officially, Church foundation governors feel they have been sidelined by the Diocese and Archdeacon Christine Allsopp.