Dear Cllr _______

I’m writing to you as a resident of this city and a strong believer that our educational system is a core asset that makes Brighton and Hove a fantastic place to live.

But I also believe that we need change to help make sure our secondary schools are inclusive to ensure every child has an equal chance to learn and thrive. Too many children in our city are missing out or limited on their choice of school. Those forced to manage the biggest disadvantages in life should be able to access the school and educational opportunities that are right for them.

I’m writing to ask you to support the proposed changes to school arrangements laid out in the ongoing consultation. Whilst recognising that no perfect solution exists, I believe the changes proposed take Brighton and Hove in the right direction.

Specifically, I welcome the proposed changes regarding the admission criteria for pupils on Free School Meals, the changes to PAN and/or catchment areas for specific schools as well as the increase in the number of preferences for school that a family can list.

I believe that these changes help to achieve three values I hold:

Putting the needs and ambitions of the children living on the lowest incomes and their families first.

Providing all parents a meaningful choice of secondary school

Ensuring that all community secondary schools remain viable so they can continue to provide not just education, but all of the additional opportunities and wider social and wellbeing support to families.

The decline in pupil numbers is a national issue and I hope that members of this Cabinet will once again take the “bold and brave” decisions needed to lead the way and create the foundations of an equitable school system.

I look forward to hearing your views on these proposed changes and how you plan to meaningfully support all children to reach their full potential and access the opportunities that a high-quality education can unlock.

Yours Sincerely,