Two more successful state schools under threat of closure as a result of academy expansion plans

The best of Voices delivered to your inbox every week - from controversial columns to expert analysis Sign up for our free weekly Voices newsletter for expert opinion and columns Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Two more state schools rated “good” or “outstanding” by the education standards watchdog Ofsted are under threat as a result of a flagship academy’s expansion plans. The threat to two middle schools in Kirklees, Yorkshire – Kirkburton and Scissett – emerged after The Independent revealed how Harrowden Middle School in Bedford, rated good with outstanding features, is to close after a neighbouring academy announced it would be competing for its pupils. Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary at all times.” Their report on Kirkburton concluded it was “good” with outstanding features, adding: “Their (the pupils’ excellent behaviour and high levels of attendance contribute well to their leasrning. Stephen Jones, a parent with two children at Kirkburton, said in a letter to his local newspaper: “This is not widening choice, it is removing choice: the choice by parents to continue with the existing excellent three-tier system.” Kirklees Council is conducting its own investigation into parents’ reaction to the scheme – although it acknowledges it will not be able to stop Shelley College from pressing ahead with its plans.