A More Inclusive Future for Brighton's Schools: Why We Support Change

27 Nov

Brighton & Hove stands at a crossroads in education. Today, our city council has shown commitment to reforming the secondary school system, and as Class Divide, we're cautiously optimistic about the potential for real change.

Why Change Matters Now

Let's be honest about where we are. Back in 2019, a senior council officer casually mentioned to us how Brighton and Hove has "advantaged schools and disadvantaged schools." That moment stuck with us - not just for what was said, but for how normal it seemed to accept this division. This casual acceptance of educational inequality, even among those meant to prevent it, has to end.

The timing is crucial. Schools across the UK face significant challenges, with student numbers expected to fall by about 1% each year until 2028-29. This isn't just a statistical change - it translates to a staggering £1 billion reduction in funding by 2029-2030. Our schools simply cannot afford to wait.

What We're Looking For

As we review the council's proposals, we're focusing on three essential criteria:

Putting lower-income families first - Education can be transformative, but only if we prioritise those with the most to gain and the most to lose.
More choices for East Brighton - Parents in this area deserve the same options available elsewhere in the city.
Protecting all community schools - Every secondary school needs to remain viable - they're not just educational institutions but vital community resources.

Moving Past Harmful Labels

We need to challenge the way we talk about our schools. Terms like "failing schools" harm communities and ignore reality. These are places where hundreds of dedicated teachers work tirelessly, where thousands of families place their trust, and where countless young people shape their futures. No school is perfect - not even those labelled as "advantaged."

What Happens Next

Over the next eight weeks, we're taking action:

- Hosting community events in East Brighton

- Organising forums for education professionals

- Making sure everyone can participate in the consultation

- Providing clear, balanced analysis of what the changes might mean

As Peter Ous, who organises our Teachers Network, puts it: "Coming from Norway, I've seen how integrated school systems can benefit entire communities. Brighton & Hove's progressive values align with creating a more unified and equitable education system."

Your Voice Matters

"Many people think their voices don't matter on issues like this," says Dr Carlie Goldsmith, campaign member. "But they do. We want everyone to look at the proposal and take part in the democratic process. We won't tell you what to think - we'll give you fair information about the ups and downs, and trust you to make up your own mind."

Dave Bailey from the Whitehawk Network adds a crucial perspective: "Children and families in Whitehawk deserve the same choices available to other areas. We urge people to experience our schools firsthand before making judgements."

Join the Conversation

Want to learn more or get involved? We're here to help:

- Come to our community events

- Join the consultation process when it starts

- Share your views and experiences

This is our chance to create real change in Brighton & Hove's education system. Let's make it count.

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