Academy review signals 'retreat'
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
A government review of the academy school programme could signal a retreat from the controversial reforms, according to teachers' unions and the Conservative Party.
Steve Sinnott, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, said the review, ordered by Children's Secretary Ed Balls last week, meant the government is beginning to realise academies are not fit for purpose. He said they should be brought back under local authority control.
Shadow children's secretary Michael Gove said the review was an "ominous sign" that Balls was preparing to retreat further on academies.
The review comes as the government faces increasing pressure to justify their funding.