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Press Release

SUPPORT NOT CLOSURE FOR FAILING SCHOOLS

6 September 2005

The Professional Association of Teachers (PAT), which represents teachers, head teachers and support staff across the UK, has called on the Education Secretary to give more support to schools in special measures instead of closing them.

Speaking ahead of a speech by Education Secretary Ruth Kelly, in which it is reported that she will announce that schools may be closed after only one year in special measures, PAT General Secretary Jean Gemmell said: "Ultimately, the education of the pupils at the schools concerned must be the most important factor in any decision. However, closing a school is enormously disruptive and dispiriting for both students and staff.

"I would urge the Secretary of State to look at why some schools are 'failing' and to provide the necessary help, resources and personnel to turn them around. Merging or federating schools may be options of last resort but these schools need support not closure.

"Giving one year deadlines could be counter-productive. It is important that schools show rapid improvement but the deep-seated problems affecting these schools can take longer than 12 months to fully rectify .

"However, I would welcome greater parental involvement in developing all schools."



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Voice: the union for education professionals

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