An Ofsted inspection report on the Essex Local Education Authority has criticised the Authority for its centralised style of corporate leadership. The report found that the LEA does not sufficiently allow headteachers, governors and other partners to contribute to policy and political decision making. Additionally, there should be more scope for these people to be involved in shaping school practices.

Ken Jones, Liberal Democrats group leader said,

"Whilst we endorse the report's findings about the good educational functions of local schools, we are concerned about the manner in which schools in Essex are run. There are far too many decisions being made at County Hall without the benefit of on-the-ground input from key school personnel."

"It is vitally important that headteacher and governors are given a meaningful role in helping to make decisions in the schools they run. This is yet another example of the dictatorial style that this Conservative administration has made its hallmark", Ken Jones added.

ENDS

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Contact:
Sandra Macdonald
Lib Dem Political Assistant, Essex CC
Phn 01245 430329
Fax 01245 491042