We are calling for a petition on behalf of some of the parent's at Fawbert & Barnard's Primary School Old Harlow, to be removed from NET Academies Trust.

We, the undersigned parents, carers and members of the local community, formally request an urgent and independent review of the above school's membership within NET Academy, with removal from the Trust to be actively considered.

Significant concerns have been raised by some parent's regarding:

■ The impact of restrictive practices on pupils’ emotional wellbeing

■ Reports of bullying and a culture that some families feel is not fully inclusive

■ Declining staff morale                         

■ Ongoing staff turnover affecting stability and continuity for pupils           

■ Staff seem too afraid of teaching the way they did, due to the fear of backlash from NET

We are concerned that these issues are contributing to avoidable stress within the school community and affecting children’s educational experience and wellbeing.

We also note concerns regarding governance transparency. The current Chair of Governors at Fawbert and Barnard's holds a leadership position within another NET Academies school. While we recognise that such arrangements may be permitted within academy governance structures, many families feel this creates a perceived conflict of interest when decisions are being made about the school’s relationship with the Trust.

We therefore believe independent oversight is essential to ensure objectivity and maintain community confidence.
Our priority is a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment where pupils thrive and staff feel supported and valued.

We therefore request:

■ An urgent, independent review of governance and Trust membership.

■A full school community meeting, open to parents and staff, to discuss concerns transparently.

■Clear communication outlining actions and measurable steps for improvement.

■Written assurance that staff can raise professional concerns or whistleblowing matters confidentially and without detriment, in line with statutory protections.

■Formal consideration of the school’s removal from NET Academies should satisfactory improvement not be demonstrated within a reasonable timeframe.

This petition is submitted respectfully and in good faith, in the best interests of the children and the wider school community. We still hold high respect for our school and we only want transparency and accountability from NET Academy Trust.

Yours faithfully,

Some of the parents at Fawbert and Barnard's Primary School.