Opinion

There is little doubt that a return to a two-tier system of schooling is the right thing to do. From the outset it was obvious that a lot of heartsearching would have to be done and some tough decisions made.

But as more and more details of the plans - or the lack of them - are revealed the full devastating impact of this paper exercise is dawning on the public. For example central government is in favour of rural community schools. Yet Bradford's plans will close some of them. A pledge was made that good schools will not close - that statement has been discredited.

The plan is aimed at improving educational standards. Yet no evidence has been produced as to how the proposed changes will achieve that. Many parents and teachers don't know when changes will be made, how they will be made or even where their offspring will be educated.They must be given details now, not later.

Financially it doesn't make much sense either. Bront' Middle School, which has an excellent record, is scheduled for closure. It is ironic that the school stands on land which has a high commercial value for a house builder.

Thankfully a growing number of people are spotting gaps in the proposals and challenging them. Education chiefs are now saying no closures or changes are set in stone, and there is to be another round of consultations.

Those protesting aren't just teachers whose lives will be changed, or parents who don't want routines changed. They are people who care about the education of children. Their voices must be heard this time.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.