Parents' views sought on academy school status

The governors of Guildford County School have voted to begin the process towards academy conversion. Academies are state schools which receive their funding from central government rather than from the local authority. We want to hear what parents, carers, staff and other stakeholders think of the idea and we will be launching a full consultation to give you the chance to have your say.

Subject to the consultation, a fair financial settlement, and all the academy conditions being met, the foundation school intends to become an academy by September 2012.

Chair of governors, Janette Owen, said: "Guildford County School offers a successful, caring and inclusive environment for learning. The governors want to protect and develop that. We have identified financial reasons to convert and the governors believe that conversion is in the best interests of students at the school now, and will benefit those who choose our school in the future."

Headteacher, Peter Costello, said: "We believe that converting to an academy will bring financial benefit to the school which we wish to secure in the interests of current and future students. We propose to build upon our existing strengths while preserving the essential ethos and character of the school.”

Parents and carers will be informed of the consultation process as soon as possible.