Horsham schools speak out amid reopening row

James Crump, headteacher of Heron Way and Alexis Conway, headteacher of Kingslea, told the County Times they have been overwhelmed with the support from Horsham’s community.

In a joint statement they said: “This highlights the crucial partnership between parents/carers and schools in ensuring the best possible outcomes for the children.

“The social and emotional well-being of our children will always be our priority.”

The schools had planned to reopen today, Monday June 29, but had to postpone the move after West Sussex County Council said it would not support the decision.

But the heads heralded the chance of all pupils returning to school before summer as a ‘golden opportunity’ to help children connect with their school, children and friends.

They added: “We want our children to have the same opportunity that children in other schools are being given.”

Parents have launched a campaign urging the county council to support the reopening. They have launched a petition which has been signed by hundreds of people and have called on Horsham’s MP Jeremy Quin to intervene.