WHAT a pity that many Bolton schools have jumped the gun and applied for Academy status at the mere threat of enforcement from government — a threat withdrawn after Union and parent pressure; and a threat weakened further by the turmoil the Tories are now in.

Since there are no sound educational reasons for Academy schools (and increasing evidence they actually lower standards) we must look elsewhere for the reasons for this rush to embrace them.

In this week of teacher strike action, Bolton TUC wishes to draw attention to the division of interests between staff and senior management which results from the financial management of Academies.

A recent example in Birmingham has been replicated in several Academies across the country.

Perry Beeches is a multi-academy trust in Birmingham. The headteacher/CEO Liam Nolan, and his governing body, resigned recently after financial irregularities were uncovered. Liam Nolan was described as brilliant by the PM in 2013, after appearing on stage alongside Michael Gove at the Tory Conference in 2012.

We urge all teachers in proposed Academies to investigate any financial conflict of interests in any proposed changes to school management arrangements. They should inform their union immediately of any concerns.

Bolton TUC is aware of problems already in Bolton Academies where management and teacher wage differentials have increased disproportionately.

It is only possible to protect teachers — and all education workers — from school leaders who advance their own wages at the expense of the main teaching body if staff are vigilant.

Bolton TUC is committed to supporting all measures designed to protect all education staff; not the few at the expense of the many.

Tom Hanley

TUC Media Correspondent