It is deeply disappointing to me that the local media have chosen to suggest that Sawyers Hall College is in peril and could close based on no significant evidence whatsoever. Yes, it is true that our intake numbers are low and we have been in discussion with the Local Authority about this situation for some time. Yes it is true that the College has had some difficult periods in the past, not least the imposition of Special Measures in January 2006 but we have moved on and it is time that the local press recognised the achievements of the school rather than running it down with negative headlines that can only undermine confidence in the future.
At Sawyers Hall College we put children first. We consider their needs, their future, their education and we take that responsibility very seriously. It is grossly unfair to our students to raise doubts and fears in their minds at a time when they should be focused on doing well at school and enjoying the experience. I have spoken at length to many students, staff and parents this week following the news stories. Anyone who cares to read the responses on the Brentwood Gazette website or on other electronic forums, cannot fail to be impressed and moved by the level of passion and commitment expressed by students, staff, members of the school community and the wider Brentwood area. My colleagues in other schools are dismayed at the seemingly dismissive attitude of what we should consider as our community newspaper. Others are concerned at what they feel is simple misrepresentation of the College community.
For my part, I would say this: “We are a confident, forward looking organisation that has transformed itself through hard work, determination to succeed and with a clear vision for that success. We have rapidly improved our results, tackled our issues worked closely with the other schools in Brentwood to secure real and meaningful challenge, not just for the students of Sawyers Hall, but also for the entire Brentwood community. Our Sixth Form results this year placed us in the top twenty schools in Essex and the Construction Centre, which opened in September, is the first part of a wider development of diplomas and vocational courses at the College which are being developed through the partnership of Brentwood Schools, Prospects College in Basildon and Havering College along with other Institutions around Essex. We are in the process of securing multi-million pound investment and this along with our Sports College bid and continually improved sports facilities makes us not just a successful school but also a hub for the community. “
The flimsy evidence on which such a dramatic headline is based, has taken little or no account of the importance of the school in the community. Many are angry and upset by this seeming disregard for the people concerned. I have invited Alan Geere, the Editor in Chief, to visit the school and see for himself the work that we do. I will extend this invitation to all parents and prospective parents and any member of the Brentwood community who wishes to see and hear for themselves the real story of Sawyers Hall College. We have an Open Evening on Tuesday 17th March 2009 between 4.00pm and 7.00pm which I am now designating as a ‘Celebration of Success at Sawyers Hall College’. I warmly invite you, one and all, to come and see us on that evening to meet the real students and staff and to make your own decision.
I am deeply proud of what has been achieved here, of our students and staff and of our plans for the future. The Governing Body of Sawyers Hall is equally determined and committed to enabling only the very best for our College community. The nearly 100 strong College Council recently spent a day at West Ham Stadium planning the future developments for students over the next two to three years. The keynote address was given by the Director of Children’s Services for Essex and the day was a huge success. Sadly this story was not reported in the Gazette and would have sent a clear message about the future. My aim is to work positively with all our partners in the community in the best interests of all our children who are in the end our future. I would urge you not just to take my word for the remarkable achievements at Sawyers Hall or to believe everything you read in the press but to come and see for yourself on the 17th March. I look forward to welcoming you personally to the College.
Stephen Capper
Headteacher