Newham residents’ last chance to comment on free school consultation

Newham residents have just a few days to have their say on a consultation for an education charity to become a free school.

Education Links has already won government approval to change its status to become an alternative provision free school. This will give the school, which is based in Stratford, financial security to plan for the long term, broaden its curriculum and strengthen its team.

Although it has had a positive response from parents, students and others, Sandy Davies, the school principal, still wants to hear from as many people as possible.

She said: “Creating confident individuals who can achieve success and become valuable members of their communities is central to the vision of Education Links. And we want our communities to sign up to that vision too.

“Not everyone thrives in mainstream school or can cope with the pressures of growing up or with family breakdown. Some young people get caught up in crime, gangs and drugs. Some have learning difficulties that go undiagnosed, or mental health issues. They need space and time to sort out their problems, and support from adults who understand. Education Links can provide that.”

For more information or to download the brochure, go to education-links.org.

Education Links has been successfully providing education for young people who have been excluded from mainstream secondary education since 2002. Based in Stratford, the school has achieved year-on-year increases in all key areas of pupil attainment for the last three years. OFSTED, the official body for inspecting schools, has noted the quality of the school’s education provision and the impact of its approach on pupils’ academic achievement and behaviour.

Consultation questionnaires, available at education-links.org, must be completed and submiited by 5pm on February 28.