NEW: It has been reported by the Silhillian that Solihull Council are set to oppose the plans saying that “Children living in the Hockley Heath, Blythe (*that’s us, folks) and Tidbury Green areas should be noted as particularly at risk.”
Tudor Grange Academy plans to give priority for places to children who attend two Church of England primary schools ahead of those living in the catchment area from 2014 onwards. Is this a real threat to children from the village securing places at the school…or a storm in a teacup?
Now that Tudor Grange has Academy status and is independent of council control it has control over its admissions policy. The academy began sponsoring St James School on Halifax Road In January and has also developed a partnership with St Alphege Infant and Junior Schools. In the proposal the school said it wants to recognise both of these relationships when it accepts new students.
The admissions order of preference will be:
Priority 1
Children looked after by a Local Authority (in line with section 22 of the Children Act) and previously looked after children who are now adopted. Children whose exceptional circumstances can only be met by that particular school
Priority 2
Children in Year 6 at Tudor Grange Primary Academy St James’ and St Alphege Junior School
Priority 3
Children who normally live in the catchment area of the academy
Priority 4
Children who have an older brother or sister at the academy at the same time
Priority 5
Children closest to the academy, measured in a straight line from child’s home
You can read the proposal here.
Tudor Grange Academy have published information showing how the changes will not cause a problem for catchment area children which you can see here. However these figures have been disputed (see Solihull Observer this week or click here) and there is a campaign against the proposals including a petition which you can visit here.
If you would like to comment on the proposals you must do so by 28th February 2013 by email to consultation@tudor-grange.solihull.sch.uk
What do DH villagers think of this proposal?