Union accuses Treasury of hijacking education debate
THE largest teachers' union has launched an attack on Treasury and Resources over its 'support' for a three secondary school model, warning of the 'anxiety and uncertainty' that would cause.
The NASUWT accused Treasury of 'overshadowing' Education's far-reaching secondary education report with its letter of comment, in which T&R sets out the potential savings of a three-school system.
The union's view was supported by Education minister Robert Sillars, who also warned of the dangers of switching attention back to the three-school concept and axing one school, including its impact on teaching staff and recruitment.
Either Les Beaucamps or Grammar would have to close under the model, he said, due to room for expansion at the other two schools.
Leading the attack on Treasury was Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT, who warned of the impact on pupils, parents and staff.
'....Overshadowing the report are the comments from the Treasury and Resources, which appear to give no consideration of the impact on pupils and staff or the educational merits of the proposals.
'The NASUWT would be very concerned if there was a move towards a three-school model.
'This would be a significant reorganisation, and cause uncertainty and anxiety for pupils, parents and staff.
'The NASUWT believes the States should stick to the recommendation to retain all four schools so that the focus is on standards not structures.'
