AN MP has waded into a row over school placements after parents in the Dengie discovered their child would be sent dozens of miles away – despite having a secondary school on their doorstep. Maldon MP John Whittingdale has been contacted by a number of parents worried about their allocated places at secondary schools, After hearing these concerns, he met with Essex County Council leaders to discuss the matter. John Whittingdale MP said: “I fully understand their concern and agree that it is wholly unrealistic to expect children to travel such distances on a daily basis. “I have met with Ray Gooding, Cabinet Member for Education, and Clare Kershaw, Director for Education, at Essex County Council.
Dengie: John Whittingdale MP addresses school placement row | Maldon and Burnham Standard
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Saturday, February 20 IT has been a quiet half-term break. Only one family reported positive Covid cases and that was at the end of the week, so there was no need to inform parents and staff of a need to isolate. My thoughts turn to the Prime Minister’s announcement due on the 22nd. I email staff and governors, part of which read: “You will be aware that leaks indicate primaries will open in full on March 8 and unions have issued a joint statement urging a more cautious approach. “You may also have read reports that infection rates among younger children is rising - unexpected and alarming news. However, last Thursday I was briefed on Essex data that differs from this national picture that I am sure you will find more reassuring.
The return of the Beast from the East. Lovely fresh snow everywhere. When I arrive at school just after 7am, the site manager is busy clearing the front pathway and car park. I tell him to leave the playgrounds – the children will love coming in via Victoria Chase and walking through the snow. This week is national E-Safety Week. I use my assembly to give guidance to parents and children on the safe use of the internet and social media. Clare Kershaw, Director of Children’s Services, confirms the Government will not budge on their decision to change the funding arrangements for pupil premium, which will mean we miss out on £8,000 in the next financial next year.
Monday, January 18 WEEK three of lockdown. The weekend was spent in communication with the LA – we will have no choice but to offer to open the nursery. What has made the situation worse is the feeling the LA has not been lobbying on behalf of settings only open to their critical worker and vulnerable children. The only help the LA has given settings is, in recognition of the late notice from Government, an extension to the census date from the 21st to the 25th January. That will give us a couple of extra working days to sort this. At the 11am meeting with Clare Kershaw (director for education at Essex County Council), we discuss our email correspondence. She is fully aware of the strength of my feelings and other headteachers in a similar situation. Some LAs have instructed their nurseries not to open and will be funding them in full. Scotland’s nurseries remain closed.
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