Delight, disappointment over academy conversion for Humberstone Junior School

Governors at a second city primary school have voted to convert it into an academy.

The controversial move at Humberstone Junior School, which was opposed by union officials and councillors, means staff will take over control of its finances and admissions from the city council.

They will also be able to choose not to follow the national curriculum if they wish.

Head teacher Annemarie Williams said the majority of parents were in favour of the decision.

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She said: "We'll be able to spend more money on our priorities and, after an overwhelmingly positive response to the consultation process, governors voted unanimously in favour of academy conversion.

"They considered the pros and cons and feel it will put us in charge of our own budget and curriculum and will allow us to make the decisions we feel will benefit children and families."

She said it was hoped the conversion could take place before the start of the next academic year. However, it is believed that at least one governor, who was opposed to the idea of academy conversion, resigned their position at the school prior to the vote taking place.

Miss Williams said: "It is the hard work and commitment of staff at Humberstone Juniors, in partnership with parents and governors, that has taken this school from special measures to being rated a good school by Ofsted, and we're now working hard on becoming outstanding.

"Staff feedback through the consultation has been highly positive and we remain committed to achieving the highest standards for all our children now and in the future."

Councillor Barbara Potter, who represents Humberstone ward, was among those who opposed conversion.

She was banned from the school after voicing her opposition and was barred from entering the grounds after trying to attend a meeting for parents about the issue.

She said: "This is an extremely disappointing day.

"Among my greatest concerns is that some of the young people of this area may no longer get into the school if it applies its own 'selective' admissions practice.

"Not only that, but the adjoining infants, which shares vital facilities, including the school hall, may be frozen out of this arrangement."

Queensmead School, in Braunstone, is the only other primary which has converted into an academy in the city.

It made the move last November.

The Leicester branch of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), which lobbied parents last month outside the school, and Leicester City Council, believe a partnership approach is the best way to run the city's schools at a high standard.

Diane Myers, head of Humberstone Infants was unavailable for comment.