On behalf of all the headteachers involved in the consultation process that seven schools have undertaken with respect to possible conversion to academy status.

We believe that the consultation process, which lasted for four weeks, has been open and inclusive. The consultation materials were widely distributed, and there have been meetings at each school with staff, parents and with students.

Harrow Council and other organisations such as the Anti-Academies Alliance have also actively participated to raise awareness of the consultation, and coverage in the local media has helped in this regard. The consultation has been longer and higher profile than many academy conversion consultations.

We would like to thank everyone who has taken part in meetings or replied in writing or by email.

The consultation has now ended and the schools are working through the responses to identify the views and issues that have been raised. All responses will be considered by the schools before they make their individual decision about whether to convert.

The consultation is part of the detailed exploration of academy status. The schools have also been exploring educational, legal, and financial issues. All of these issues will be considered by the governing body.

While the seven high schools have collaborated in their exploration of academy status, it will be a decision for each individual governing body as to whether to convert.

That decision will be taken by the governing body of the particular school, which includes parent and staff governors. The governing body will make the decision that it believes is in the best interest of the school and its students for the future.

John Reavley
Headteacher, Rooks Heath College