Academies opening in September

I enclose below the press release that was today issued by Merton Council on academies.

Academies opening in September
31 July 2006

London Borough of Merton confirms that the two new academies will be opening as planned on 11 September 2006. The old Mitcham Vale School will be known as St Mark's Church of England Academy. Tamworth Manor School will now be known as the Harris Academy Merton. All pupils should report as normal on 11 September at the two new academies. The council wishes to thank everyone involved, particularly parents and pupils for their patience during the uncertain period, which is now over.

Councillor Debbie Shears, Merton's Cabinet Member for Children's Services said: "I am delighted that the two new Academy schools will definitely be opening in September. This will provide an excellent opportunity for improving the educational experiences and life chances of young people in the area.' The council is pleased to be working closely with the two sponsors, the Harris Foundation and the Diocese of Southwark and their partners CfBT and TocH. The sponsors will provide a high quality education for pupils and bring about further improvements to both schools.

Dave Hill, Merton Council's Director of Children, Schools and Families said: "Families and pupils in Merton, and Mitcham in particular, will benefit from the opening of the two academies including the new sixth forms that will be developed at the schools." "We are confident that our consultation process was carried out properly and fairly and that the proposals are in the interest of all Merton children. The independent schools adjudicator and last week's High Court decision confirms our view."

Ends. Note to editors: All parents will be sent a letter from the council on Monday 31 July. Press Contact: Sapphira van Assema London Borough of Merton 020 8545 4654