Full survey results in link at the bottom of the page
Anthony has called for action in response to overwhelming concerns voiced by residents in answer to his recent survey regarding the quality of education provided at Longsands and Ernulf Academies.
The survey, which garnered a substantial response from local residents, revealed a profound sense of dissatisfaction among parents. Of the 566 respondents, a staggering 76% expressed discontent with the overall quality of education provided, while an overwhelming 92% lacked confidence in the leadership of the Astrea Academy Trust, which oversees both schools.
Key findings underscored the widespread apprehension regarding Astrea's management approach, with 78% of respondents advocating for the separation of schools under different academy trusts. Furthermore, a large majority (79%) of participants expressed dissatisfaction with the behaviour policies, while 60% highlighted inadequate communication between the schools and parents.
With pupils in the west of his Constituency potentially heading to the schools in September, Mr Browne emphasized the need for immediate action to address the pressing issues identified in the survey, saying:
"I am deeply troubled by the overwhelming consensus among parents and community members regarding the shortcomings of the Astrea Academy Trust. It's clear from the feedback we've received that there are significant challenges, from concerns about the Trust’s leadership to issues surrounding teaching quality and behaviour policies. It is imperative that we take decisive steps to ensure our children receive the education they deserve."
I have always believed it is our duty to ensure that every child receives a quality education that prepares them for success. I will be taking this feedback directly to ministers to all options, including re-brokering the Academy Trust for one or both schools, and urge all members of our community to remain actively involved in this process.”
Moving forward, Mr Browne pledged to relay the anonymized survey results to both schools, the leadership team at the Astrea Academy Trust, and the County Council. He has scheduled meetings with Ministers in the Department of Education to assess further options in light of expected Ofstead results, and is looking to convene a public meeting to better understand the outcomes expected by residents.