Steyning Grammar School delays academy plans

Steyning Grammar School has pushed back plans to join an academy trust by a month.
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The school was set to complete a controversial move to the Bohunt Education Trust on November 1, but has delayed the change until December 1.

It has cited the ‘complexities and size’ of the school as a reason for the postponement, particularly the transition of its payroll, and an executive board will be put in place to aid the transition.

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Sue Gearing, trustee of Steyning Grammar School Foundation, said: “This is wonderful news for our school. Many of our governors will join the local governing body after December 1 and our Foundation, which was originally founded in 1614, is excited about working with BET for the benefit of our students. Thank you all for your patience whilst we complete this process. For all of us, it has been and continues to be a privilege to support your children.”

DM1912625a.jpg. Church Street, Steyning. Photo by Derek Martin Photography. SUS-190126-232211008DM1912625a.jpg. Church Street, Steyning. Photo by Derek Martin Photography. SUS-190126-232211008
DM1912625a.jpg. Church Street, Steyning. Photo by Derek Martin Photography. SUS-190126-232211008

A petition calling for the process to be delayed has over 1,000 signatures, but this latest announcement has brought no solace to campaigners.

Stephen Hollis, 45, who has two daughters at the school, said the union-backed group of parents and teachers would continue to fight academisation.

He maintained consultation was not thorough enough, that the move had been sold as a ‘done deal’ and many parents were left in the dark.