Community members across Shoeburyness and Thorpe Bay have deepening concern around the behaviour of Southend East Community Academy Trust (SECAT) and its management of Bournes Green Schools. 

Concerns regarding the lack of efficiency, transparency, and the overall effectiveness of SECAT have grown amongst parents and community members, leading to a crisis of confidence and disappointment. There has been a complete breakdown of trust and respect.

Bournes Green Schools (BGS), known for their strong community spirit, are being ripped apart by the current administration's lack of engagement and financial mismanagement. Instances of inconsistent communication, inadequate resource allocation, a toxic working environment for staff and unaddressed parental concerns have led to no confidence in SECAT's leadership. 

Sadly, evidence from other schools managed by SECAT points to a pattern of similar issues, further illustrating the systemic problems that necessitate change.

Our community, our children and the staff deserve a multi-academy trust that prioritizes students, responds to the community's needs, and ensures effective education. We propose transitioning BGS away from SECAT's control to an alternative governance model that will restore trust, improve performance, and better align with our community’s values.

Options such as joining a different multi-academy trust or establishing a new Bournes Green Schools trust could provide the fresh start that our schools need.

The future of our children’s education depends on this crucial change. Let us unite to urge the relevant educational authorities to consider our demand seriously and act in the best interest of our children and community. 

Sign this petition to voice your support for asking the Department of Education to conduct an urgent review into SECAT and to allow Bournes Green Schools to transfer out of the Trust at the earliest possible opportunity.