Liberal Democrat councillors in Haringey working on a scrutiny report into the ‘extended services’ provided by schools in the borough have potentially opened the door to valuable partnerships between independent schools and community schools in the borough.

As part of their review, Lib Dem councillors proposed that Haringey Council should seek links and partnerships with independent schools. Councillors have discussed their ideas with the Masters and Bursars of both Channing and Highgate Schools, who responded very positively to this pioneering proposal.

A number of possible pilot projects were discussed with Highgate, with Haringey Council being asked to follow this up with urgent discussions with the schools to get these exciting projects off the ground – for the benefit of pupils from both the state and independent sectors.

Cllr Martin Newton (Liberal Democrat, Fortis Green), who chaired the review, comments:

“The scrutiny review was an opportunity to see if potential links and partnerships with Haringey schools were possible. I was absolutely delighted by the wonderfully positive response we received from both Channing and Highgate to this idea. I hope that the Council follows this up with constructive talks with the schools to see how this can be developed.

“While pilot projects would have to be worked out, the very real potential benefits for local students could involve tuition in more specialist subjects not available elsewhere, or sporting activities.”

Cllr Gail Engert, member of the review, and Lib Dem spokesperson for Children and Young People adds:

“Some of the ideas coming forward have the potential of making a real contribution to the future of Haringey’s pupils. I am pleased we have been able to get agreement for talks to take place and hope that these will result in trials of these projects in the near future.”