Schools Consortium warns of "missed opportunity" risk

The action group was formed when controversial traffic-calming measures for Gunters Lane went to public consultation.

This week Bexhill Consortium chairman David Pratt, head of Little Common School, said in a statement on behalf of the consortium: "The Bexhill Consortium, representing all state schools in Bexhill and other agencies supporting young people, was concerned to see in last week's Observer that the Glenleigh Park Action Group, in the pursuit of its concerns over the traffic implications of the proposed new school, is now calling for two schools rather than one to be built.

"This would be a major missed opportunity for Bexhill.

"Young people are now better informed, more confident and assertive.The old ways of teaching, which most of us experienced, are no longer appropriate. The Government requires a more personalised approach to teaching and learning more akin to a university where lecturers guide students who pursue their studies through research, projects and group work. Schools are also having to change to exploit the opportunities offered by new technologies and the internet.

"The Government, as part of the package, requires Bexhill High to address these changes and bring about a transformation in the way education is delivered, not only in the new school, but across the town.

"The article implies that there will be classes of 80 pupils which is quite wrong. The pods referred to will provide the flexible spaces needed, for about 80 students with groups of teachers, where students on their own or in groups will pursue their studies with easy access to the latest technologies.

"A further Government objective is to provide students with a wide choice of subjects recognising that the traditional academic curriculum is not suitable for all. The large Bexhill High will provide a wider choice of subjects than would be practical in two smaller schools thus providing wider student choice.

"Consortium headteachers are fully in support of the proposals and look forward to completion of the school and the benefits it will bring to young people in Bexhill and the wider community.

"While there is a serious traffic issue which needs to be addressed, it would be most unfortunate if this narrow issue were allowed, in any way, to call into question the building of the new school and the undoubted benefits it will bring to Bexhill."