4^th June 2009

To all staff at Alfred Barrow, Parkview and Thorncliffe Schools

Re: Furness Academy

Colleagues at Walney School would like to offer support to all staff at Alfred Barrow, Parkview and Thorncliffe Schools.

Many of us have been lobbying John Hutton and Ed Balls to delay the opening of Furness Academy in September 2009.  We have expressed the following concerns:

• The process has been rushed.
• Lessons have not been learned from the Richard Rose Academy, where OFSTED cited fast-tracking of their academy as a significant factor in its problems.
• The short time left to ensure appropriate curriculum planning and implementation for a September 2009 start, which could have a detrimental effect on learning.
• Lack of information shared with pupils, parents and staff.
• The anxiety experienced by many staff and pupils caused by uncertainty about their future.
• The unsatisfactory handling of the recruitment process, which has highlighted a lack of regard for staff morale
• Lack of support for those unsuccessful in being matched to their preferred post.

We feel strongly that, in light of the above, the decision to proceed with the Academy in September 2009 needs to be re-considered, therefore we are sending a copy of this letter to the Sponsors of Furness Academy, the Governors of your schools, Moira Swann, Barrow Council, John Hutton MP and Ed Balls MP.

Cc: Moira Swann, Corporate Director - Children's Services
      David Kelly, Principal, Barrow-in-Furness Sixth Form College
      Ann Atwood, Principal, Furness College
      Neil Simco, Dean of the Faculty of Education, University of Cumbria
      Brian Caine, Chair of Governors, Alfred Barrow School
      Craig Foster, Chair of Governors, Thorncliffe School
      Peter Mackay, Chair of Governors, Parkview School
      Ed Balls MP, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families
      John Hutton MP 
      Barrow Town Council'