27 June 2012
Waveney MP Peter Aldous today commented on the Beccles Free School.

Mr Aldous said:

“Whilst supportive of Free Schools in principle and recognizing the advantages of parents having the choice of a varied education provision, I have always been of the opinion that it is not appropriate for there to be a Free School in Beccles at the current time.

“One of my concerns has been the limited demand and the figures released today showing only 37 places allocated across three year groups supports this view.

“It would appear appropriate for the Seckford Foundation to explore the possibility of a consolidated Free School at the Saxmundham site and I would urge them to give this option full consideration.

“Providing young people in Suffolk with the best possible education, thereby raising aspiration and levels of achievement, is extremely important and it is vital that decisions that will shape young people’s lives for a generation are taken in a considered and reasoned manner. Whilst I appreciate that there are strongly held views on this issue, I believe that it is vital that we put the interests of young people first.”