Our Lady of Lourdes primary school could become an academy – i.e. independent of Redbridge Borough Council.
The Diocese of Brentwood has applied for all Catholic schools in the borough to become academies, and, according to a report in the Recorder, part of the reason is that the process of schools becoming academies has reduced local authorities’ ability support schools.
The diocese also believes that the move would lead to “a new spirit of collaboration” between Catholic schools, according to the report. The move led to a protest of parents outside the school gate last week and is being opposed by Redbridge councillors.
In 2016 a plan by the Department of Education to turn Snaresbrook Primary School into an academy against the will of parents and staff was defeated by campaigners.