Now that the public meetings, concerning the education system in Borehamwood, have come to an end, it is time to think seriously before we complete the response form. The final date for the Response Forms to be sent to County is Friday December 18.

On the whole, attendance of the various meetings was poor. But of those people who did attend, very good and important issues and comments were made. County's presentation was good and everyone had an opportunity to express their views or to ask their questions.

To all those people, and to those people who did not attend, I would ask that you consider carefully the education implications of the proposed restructure, rather than any emotional allegiance to a particular school. Whatever you have to say is important, and will affect the education of future generations of Borehamwood's children.

Therefore, please consider:

* That we need to raise standards and parental perception of schools in Borehamwood. Although results are improving, our secondary schools are still in the bottom 10% of Hertfordshire schools.

* That the three tier system is out of step with the National Curriculum Key Stages, which causes unnecessary disruption to children's education midway through Key Stage 2 and 3.

* That change to a two-tier system will allow teachers greater continuity of teaching, and will allow parents accountability for results.

*We have moved on a phase in the consultation period, and now have to decide whether one or two secondary schools is the best way forward.

* Although there will be a period of disruption, parents must look at the long-term issues.

* The one school option would be on a split site basis (11 to 16 year olds on one site and post 16 on another).

* There is no more evidence of bullying or drug taking in one large school than there is in two smaller schools.

* One school would be better funded, be able to offer a far greater range of subjects and courses than two schools could ever offer, and would have better facilities.

* The number of subjects and courses available to post 16 year olds in one school would be greater, allowing children far better choice when it really matters.

* The vast majority of teachers from our Firsts, Middle and Upper schools are in favour of and supportive of the one school option.

* That whatever the outcome of this restructuring, we as parents, teachers and the wider community must support the changes in order that we can achieve an education system, here in Borehamwood, to be proud of.

Wendy Shorter,

Malden Road,

Borehamwood.

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