Posted on Sunday 24th Apr 2016
There is a risk plans to turn all state schools in England into academies will not raise school standards, a group representing 37 largely Conservative local authorities has warned.
Councillor Paul Carter, from the County Councils Network, said the government was pursuing change with "undue haste".
Under draft government plans, all state schools in England will have to leave the oversight of councils by 2022.
A Department for Education spokesman said the concerns were "misplaced".
The evidence around academies is mixed, with most experts agreeing there is no conclusive proof the model is the single best way to improve education.
Councillor Carter is chairman of the County Councils Network and also leader of Kent County Council and a governor of a multi-academy trust.
He told the BBC: "My concern is that the change will lead to a poorer education system operating across Kent, and more broadly England, because the value that local authorities generally provide to schools will be removed."
Can't find what you are looking for?
Don't worry, please call us anyway to discuss your ideal job.
Latest News
17/09/25More school-starters missing key skills, teachers say
Schools are "picking up the pieces" as more children start reception without key skills such as speaking in full sentences or using the toilet independently, teaching unions have told the BBC.
16/09/25Parents Protest against SEND plans
‘Our children matter’: parents protest against government’s Send overhaul plans
02/09/25School to expand on land earmarked for graveyard
A number of schools in Kent are set to expand, including one on to land previously reserved for a graveyard, in an effort to meet growing demand for school places.
14/07/25AI revolution to give teachers more time with pupils
Pupils across England will benefit from more face-to-face time with teachers as the government forges ahead with plans to harness the power of AI to deliver educational excellence.
08/07/25Children with special needs will 'always' have 'legal right' to support, education secretary says
Bridget Phillipson seeks to dampen a looming row over whether the government could scrap tailored plans for children with special needs - as some Labour MPs fear a repeat of the welfare row.
News Archive