Why hand sixth form to private firm?

I WAS very surprised to see Brian Jenkin's attacking local teachers for their opposition to BSF.

Firstly, his criticism of Tamworth academic results is actually out of date, as both Rawlett and Wilnecote are performing above the national average, while Belgrave and Woodhouse have made good progress over the last few years.

Teachers protest against county council plans for changes to secondary education across Staffordshire. Reader Nick Blakemore says he is surprised by Tamworth MP Brian Jenkins reaction to the teachers' opposition to the plans. Pic: Adam Harnett/Caters News.

Secondly, I have no doubt that the extra investment of a massive £100m in Tamworth schools will have a great impact on raising results and persuading more students to go into the sixth form – who wouldn't want to go to the fabulous new centre they are promising?

What I do not understand is why this increase can only be achieved by handing over most of that money to a private company who will then have the futures of all Tamworth A-level students in their unproven hands.

I do support the development of a single sixth form centre, which I feel will offer better choice and teaching to the students, but if it were managed by a group of senior teachers, managers and governors representing all five of the existing schools, we would have a single approach for all of Tamworth rather than the two-tier system this current proposal will generate.

Nick Blakemore Rawlett Parent.