A good school

The truth I refer to is what the majority of parents have always known and believed, that Richmond is a good school with strong leadership and good behaviour policies in place. This was the decision reached following meetings with staff, students, parents and members of the Independent Executive Board.

The contents of this would arrive too late for your edition last week and instead we see the comments of a minority of parents whose sole purpose appears to be to undermine the governing of a recognised, successful and highly respected school.

I respect the rights of people to have their opinions but also respect that policies and procedures are there to be followed. A petition to elect Cllr Stuart Parsons has been circulated by a small number of people including, I understand, some who are not connected with the school (although I have not seen the petition to confirm this).

I have had support from Cllr Parsons in the past regarding local matters and respect his knowledge. However, on the matter of school governance I have to question the motive and appropriateness of the petition.

After the resignation of the previous governing body the school has seen the successful implementation of the IEB and needs to build on this as it continues to move forward. The majority of parents have not signed this petition and I am sure that they, like myself, would not wish to see a new issue arise that only seeks to damage the leadership of the school.

I would therefore request that parents consider their actions before signing the petition and stand by the professional opinion of the Ofsted inspectors and the majority of parents and students of the school.

Richmond School is a good school and deserves the support of parents and those in positions of authority in the local community.

ROBERT FOTHERGILL

Parent, Richmond School.