Teachers strike over academy plans

Teaching union the NUT argues that converting Weston Favell Secondary School to an academy is unnecessary.

The union, whose teaching members at the school are striking, also questions the choice of ULT, which is part of the United Church Schools Trust, to manage the academy.

Last month ULT was publicly dressed down by schools minister Vernon Coaker, who ordered the organisation to halt an expansion of its academy programme.

He questioned the slow progress made at some of ULT's 17 academies but allowed the Northampton scheme, as well as another in Oxford, to go ahead.

Christine Blower, NUT general secretary, said: "In common with parents, students and governors NUT members are opposed to the idea of the school being put into the hands of the undemocratic, unaccountable ULT, which has recently been criticised by the government for the poor performance of its existing academies.  

"Weston Favell is an improving school and the upheaval of a change of status will undoubtedly disrupt this progress."

A council spokeswoman said that cabinet members are due to discuss the plans next week. "A final decision will be taken next week at the meeting. We have had a consultation and the cabinet members will look at the responses before making a decision."