Willenhall E-Act Academy: Crisis-hit school tells pupils to keep quiet

Ofsted rated Willenhall E-Act Academy ‘Inadequate’ in every area after visiting in March. Now students at the Furzebank Way school have been ordered to ‘ignore the Press’ in a Power Point presentation.

They have also been told not to comment on social media stories regarding the school.

The slide-show warned pupils they would face ‘Academy sanctions’ if they do anything that brings the school into disrepute.

A student, who asked not to be named, said the presentation was seen by ‘almost all pupils’ and that the demands were a ‘violation’ of their freedom of speech.

Councillor Darren Hazell, who represents the school area, said: “I think they have got the right to speak out.

“There have been a number of changes with teachers coming and going and the school has not been in a suitable position.

“But that should not stop students talking about it.”

His wife Councillor Liz Hazell, who is an ambassador for the school, said: “In the long term the school needs to be more transparent from the public and students’ point of view.

“However, we have to remember exams are ongoing now and we don’t want anything to distract the pupils from that at this time.

“Let them get through them first and then sort out these problems after.”

Some education bosses, such as Councillor Chris Towe, former education chief in Walsall, have said E-Act’s plight is further evidence that academies do not work.

Councillor Liz Hazell is also unconvinced that schools are better off outside of local authority control.

She added: “I don’t see that they have improved schools. Good school which have converted to academies have remained good and poor ones have remained poor.”

E-Act chiefs said the instructions were to keep pupils focused during exams.

A statement said: “This is not a question of freedom of speech, but about helping ensure all of our students are focused on their studies.

“For those taking exams, this is obviously a very important time in the school year and we do not want them to be distracted in any way.

“We are absolutely committed to being open and transparent, and we continue to work closely with parents and guardians who are being kept updated on every stage of progress.

“There have been challenges at Willenhall, but we are doing everything possible to ensure the academy continues to make rapid progress so we are able to offer the best possible education to our students.

“We are absolutely committed to turning this academy around.”