Welcome to the Media Center for the "Don't Cut Our Time to Shine" Campaign

Our campaign is committed to opposing the proposed reduction in school hours at Harlow Fields School & College, which significantly impacts students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families. This page offers resources, key facts, and contact information to assist members of the press in covering our story.

Quick Facts

  • Proposal Date: 22nd March 2024
  • Proposed Change: Reduction of the school day by approximately 9%, affecting all students at Harlow Fields School & College.
  • Current Timetable:
    • Registration: 9 - 9:10am
    • Current First Lesson: 9:10am
    • Current Final Lesson: 3:10pm - 3:25pm
  • Proposed Timetable:
    • 9.10 - 9.25 Pupils and young people arrive
    • 9.30 - 10.30 Lessons
    • 2.50 - 3.00pm Pupils and young people depart
  • Rationale Given: To allocate additional time for staff training.
  • Impact: Potential negative effects on students' learning, development, and family routines, with specific challenges for SEND students and working parents.
  • Campaign Launch: 25th March 2024, in response to the school's announcement.
  • Original Newsletter: Download PDF
  • Coffee Morning: 22nd April 2024 - Harlow Fields School & College
  • Final Consultation Date: 22nd April 2024
  • Proposed Implementation: September 2024
  • Public Petition: https://chng.it/zzffngkbWk

Campaign Spokespeople

  • Darren Casey, Campaign Founder: A parent of a student at Harlow Fields School & College and the instigator of the "Don't Cut Our Time to Shine" campaign.
  • Helen Casey, Education Specialist: An expert on SEND education, available to discuss the specific impacts of reduced school hours on learning and development.
  • Demine Coericius, Parent: Available to speak on the impact the proposed school day changes.
  • Sarah Matthews, Parent: Available to speak on the impact the proposed school day changes.

School Details

Essex County Council

https://schools.essex.gov.uk/info/director/Pages/west-structure.aspx

Director of Education - Clare Kershaw

Assistant Director (West) Education - Nicola Woolf

SEND Quadrant Manager & Co-PEP

Contact Information

For media inquiries, interviews, and further information, please contact:

We appreciate your interest in our campaign and are available for interviews, comments, and any additional information you may require. Together, we aim to ensure that every child at Harlow Fields School & College has the opportunity to shine through a full day of education.