Government plans for every state school to join an academy trust will increase fragmentation of the education system and divert money away from pupils, says school unions today (Wednesday).
UNISON is among seven unions representing teachers, leaders and school support staff who have voiced concerns about some of the measures in the schools white paper published in February.
In a joint statement, the unions point out that more than two decades after academies were first introduced the education system has become increasingly complex. That has led to variable transparency, weak local accountability and decision‑making processes that are often remote from parents, staff and communities, the unions say.
There are also serious concerns about excessive chief executive pay and insufficient financial oversight remain unresolved, the statement says.
And with schools facing severe funding pressures, the unions say the move would divert scarce public resources into further structural reorganisation that cannot be justified.
They also warn the upheaval will divert leadership time away from delivering the significant reforms in special needs and disabilities (SEND) set out in the White Paper. With no costings for the conversion of every school, there are major questions about value for money, the unions add.
Ministers should work with the education workforce on reforms that strengthen collaboration between schools and ensure public funds are used more transparently, say the unions.
Notes to editors:
– The statement can be found here. It has been issued jointly by UNISON, NASUWT, NEU, AEP (Association of Educational Psychologists), GMB, Unite and Community.
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