Minister calls for more co-op schools

Schools secretary Ed Balls has urged more schools to consider using a co-operative model where local parents, businesses and community groups are actively involved with their governance.

Launching the West Oldham Co-operative Trust, on a visit to Hathershaw College of Technology and Sport, Mr Balls said the government's pilot scheme was going "from strength to strength" with 25 schools already up and running.

A further 60 are on their way and Mr Balls hopes the number of trusts will continue to grow: "This is about putting power in the hands of those who are directly engaged with local schools and who know best what is needed in their area."

Education union the Association of Teachers and Lecturers is opposed to the government's Trust Schools Programme, as its members say involving external partners will not improve standards.

Written by Alan Douglas

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