We, the parents, carers, and community members of Derbyshire, are calling for an independent safeguarding investigation into Heritage High School.

Too many students have been failed, mistreated, and left without proper emotional or pastoral support. Children should never feel unsafe, anxious, or unheard in school — yet this is the reality for far too many at Heritage.

It’s time for accountability and change.

In recent months, serious concerns have been raised by parents, carers, and former students about the safeguarding culture and conduct at Heritage High School in Clowne, Derbyshire.

These concerns include:

Students being mocked or dismissed when emotionally distressed, including those experiencing bereavement or mental health struggles.
Lack of pastoral care, empathy, and safeguarding support in situations where children have been bullied or traumatised.
Unfair disciplinary actions that have left children anxious, humiliated, and fearful of speaking out.
A breakdown in trust between parents and leadership, resulting in multiple families choosing to withdraw their children from the school entirely.

While individual complaints have been made and reported to:

Derbyshire Children’s Services,
The Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO),
Ofsted, and
The Two Counties Trust,

many parents believe these issues represent a systemic failure rather than isolated incidents.

We therefore call for:

An independent safeguarding investigation into Heritage High School, carried out by professionals outside of The Two Counties Trust.
A transparent review of how the school handles complaints, bullying, bereavement, and emotional wellbeing.
A public report with clear recommendations and accountability measures.
Assurance that students and parents can speak freely without fear of retaliation or further harm.

No parent should have to choose between their child’s education and their child’s safety.

No child should come home from school feeling broken.

It’s time for transparency, accountability, and meaningful change at Heritage High School.