Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Andy Reed (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 25 January 2010 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Secondary Head Teachers

Question: My hon. Friend will know that, in Leicestershire, the county council proposes to close two out of three secondary schools. Does he agree that closing an outstanding secondary school would be a big mistake, and that, in trying to ensure that it is possible to deliver in a town the size of Loughborough, greater collaboration—not necessarily the removal of heads— and the sharing of best practice by schools is the best way to deliver education for 11 to 14-year-olds?

Answer: As my hon. Friend knows, school organisation and the commissioning of school places is a matter for the local authority. It is a matter of great concern to hear that in Loughborough one of the proposals is the closure of an outstanding school. That would require detailed attention. He will need to work, as he is no doubt doing, with the local authority and the local community to see what can be done about it.

Secondary information