THE answer to M E Ross’s question (Journal, June 15) is no – especially if that system is working well.

The Pershore schools pyramid has over the years become a strong alliance of teachers, governors and parents all with the same objective – the best possible education for our children.

There is ongoing co-operation and discussion to check on progress within the curriculum and to ensure that transition from one level of school to the next is as seamless as possible.

Why then, when Pershore High School maintains that the education achievements of children coming to them at year eight are up to expectation is this disruption necessary?

There is no proof that an extra year at Pershore High School will improve GCSE results. What is sure is that the children at year seven will miss the character-building chance of being in a middle school where they will gain confidence and learn more about their own abilities and strengths.

Teachers' main concern if this change were to go ahead is not the job losses, worrying though this is, but the unintended consequences – namely the loss of specialist teachers in the middle schools and therefore the reduction of quality teaching throughout these schools.

Also, redundancy pay will have to be found from the school’s budget which could leave a school bankrupt! There would therefore be fewer facilities throughout the whole school.

The consultation time scale is too short – had it been a local suthority review, the time would be longer, giving all parties a chance to prepare.

If this proposal goes ahead 500 children (two year groups) would be transferred to Pershore High School in September 2016 – surely this is unacceptable.

I urge the governors/trustees of the high school to look at all the implications of this.

You are in danger of ruining the excellent relationships that have built up between Pershore High School and the 15 other schools in the pyramid.

It is to be hoped that everyone involved makes their views known by completing the Age Range Consultation Response survey either online via the high school website or on paper, a copy of which can be obtained from the high school reception effective January 28, 2015.

Hazel Bugbird

Governor

St Barnabas CE First and Middle School