After what I appreciate has been an incredibly stressful and, at times, frustrating month for many families across Bromley and Chislehurst, I am delighted that it has been confirmed this afternoon that Bullers Wood School for Boys will be opening this September in temporary accommodation at 1 Westmoreland Road. This means that the School will be in a position to offer unconditional offers tomorrow on National Offers Day.
This has only been possible thanks to the dedication and hard work of the parents’ campaign group (who have been absolutely fantastic), as well as the efforts of colleagues from all political parties. I am especially grateful to the Bromley Town Councillors – Nicky Dykes, Will Harmer and Michael Rutherford – as well as Peter Fortune, the Deputy Leader of the Council and Education Portfolio Holder, and Ben Greene and Anne Gouldthorpe, the Heads of both schools.
As I have said at the last two marches in support of the School, this campaign has mobilised a great number from our community behind a common cause and has demonstrated localism at its best. It has been a pleasure to be a part of that.
I must also thank the Education Secretary, Damian Hinds, and the Schools Minister, Lord Agnew, for the clear direction they have given and the manner in which they have dealt with this case during all of my meetings with them.
Our focus must now be on securing a permanent home for Bullers Wood School for Boys at St Hugh’s playing fields, something all of us will be working on over the coming months.