Friday outside the school

A good number of folk gathered together at 11.00am for a peaceful protest against the planned closure of the school. It was a lively and friendly bunch of local folk. A large number of young people came out of school at break time to swell the numbers. A 'Citizenship' lesson, but this time in real life. We complain about young people not being bothered to vote. Well, the Lafford young people certainly voted, with their feet.

Parents were talking about what was happening in their homes with their children. Hardly any of them could concentrate on normal lessons. All they could think and worry about was the closure of their school. Their worries and questions had increased. These are young people who have been creating petitions, rallying round and generally motivating themselves (and their parents) to do something.

A Lincs FM reporter arrived to do some interviews. Not sure if they have already been on air, but I think he was quite surprised at what he was witnessing. Sadie from the Sleaford Standard came along for some photographs. The young people were certainly vocal. Eventually it was time to return to school, and with a bit of encouragement all were accounted for. Phew!

Everyone knows that there is much to do. It looks like Douglas Hogg, our MP, has agreed to see parents at in Sleaford next Friday. I don't have any more details on that, so if someone does will you please post it as a comment here and I will publicise it. This is the first step in gaining some ground on being heard. At the moment that is the least we can ask. A fair hearing is what local people want. We are all reasonable people, upset, yes, but all still reasonable. We must not forget that each parent who is stepping up to the plate wants the very best for their child. Now, that is a laudable thing.

It was a pleasure to see all the parents, young people and staff at the school gate (Note: the staff were NOT protesting, they were just collecting children and returning them to their classes!). Thanks everyone for a pleasant, peaceful protest and great publicity. I am getting to know so many new folk, I love it. I knew that the people who lived here were cool, I just didn't realise how many of you are out there! So whoever organised this Friday's meeting, well done.

Have a restful and stress-free weekend :-)