GEORGE Osborne announced in his Government budget that all local authority schools must become academies by 2022 – a policy originally intended to improve schools that were described as ‘failing’.

Osborne did not explain how the Government will deal with funding issues, lack of school places, shortage of qualified teaching staff or how to reduce large class sizes to mention just a few common problems in education.

Instead we were told that turning all schools into academies is in the ‘best interest’ of all concerned.

Critics raise concerns at the idea of all local authority schools becoming what may be described as ‘for profit’ businesses.

There is pressure from the public, teaching unions and local authorities alike on the Government to re-consider this decision.

Involving parents and carers alongside teachers and other stakeholders is essential – not least to represent parental and community interests.

It is deeply concerning that parents, children, teachers and the community were not consulted about any of the Government’s plans to turn all schools into academies.

Please sign the petition at petition.

parliament.uk/petitions/124747.

SEAN CREANEY Bewsey