School closure will drive families away

I found much encouragement and hope in this letter, for it talks of community. It talks about the difficult path of standing up for justice. My community, your community, our community. Thanks so much, Don.

Again from the Sleaford Standard (who, by the way, have been very supportive. Thank you.)

EDITOR – I'm trying to relate the comments of Secretary of State Ed Balls to what is happening at the Lafford High School in Billinghay.

Where do such statements made by him as "no child in the 21st century should go to school in fear or be prevented from learning" or "every young person in our country has the chance to fulfil their potential" apply in the scheme of local school closures? Has Mr Balls ever visited the Lafford High School before he gave the OK to instigate its closure? He should come to rural Lincolnshire and experience for himself exactly how these children are going to 'fulfil their potential'.

This school thrives on its children's successes. The children thrive on the school's commitment in helping them achieve their full potential. Isn't that what Mr Balls is saying they should have? This school copes with children other schools have turned away. This school is an achieving school, it is breaking down barriers so all can have equal chances.

The campaign to save the Lafford High School has seen a united community; it has brought out parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles, old Laffordians and potential new Laffordians. Closing this school will see an established community crumble. There'll be no spirit, no communication. It'll leave families dejected as they see younger families move away.

Perhaps it is time the Government needs to appoint a Secretary of State for Deprived Children, Empty Schools and Broken Families.

DJ IRVINE
Billinghay