2 June 2010

Urgent statement from the NGSA

We understand that approaches are being made to persuade grammar schools to become academies, in particular by the Grammar Schools Heads Association (GSHA).  We strongly advise governors and headteachers to be extremely cautious.  At present, there are fears that  academies may not be legally defined as 'maintained' schools, in which case they may lose the statutory protection of requiring a parental ballot before they are turned into comprehensive schools. There may be other covert dangers and until everything is made clear in the area of legislation and elsewhere, we strongly recommend extreme caution. If necessary, please seek advice from the NGSA before making decisions that may later threaten your school.    

Robert McCartney QC

Chairman