Parent and pupil backlash over school arts cuts

Nicola says her daughter thrives during music and art teaching and describes the move as "heartbreaking"

Parents and pupils have criticised a planned reduction in teaching hours for arts subjects at a Sheffield secondary school.

In a recent letter to parents, Newfield School said there would be an increase in teaching time for maths and English to help boost attainment in the core subjects.

The curriculum changes, set to start in September, would mean fewer computing, design technology, music and drama classes for years seven to nine.

One parent described the move as a "travesty" and called for a full consultation, but the school argued the arts would "remain a valued part of school life".

About 300 pupils and parents gathered at the school gates on Lees Hall Road on Monday morning to protest against the move, with many carrying home-made signs.

Under the plan, other subjects will move to a rotating "carousel model" to allow more curriculum time for maths and English.

Pupils in years seven, eight and nine will see a reduction in art, music computing, design technology, music and drama hours

Liz, whose child has special educational needs, said she was "deeply concerned" about how the changes would affect her daughter.

"The arts subjects are an incredible way for her to express herself," she said.

"They are a break from the traditional subjects that require a lot of concentration."

Charlotte, a student, said: "I love music and drama - it makes me so angry they are doing this because it is what keep me going through the week."

Miranda, a parent who attended the protest, said parents were disappointed with the lack of communication over the changes.

"Where is the consultation and dialogue," she said.

"We only found out because it was leaked."

Son Lucas said: "It makes no sense to change computing, we need that more than ever with electronics jobs."

Miranda and son Lucas were keen to have their voices heard

Mercia Learning Trust, a multi-academy trust which runs the school, said: "We remain fully committed to a broad and balanced curriculum.

"All pupils will continue to receive full coverage of the national curriculum, and all current GCSE option subjects in years 10 and 11 - including music, drama and art - will continue to be offered with lesson time above national guidance."

The spokesperson continued: "We acknowledge the strength of feeling amongst a small group of families, however many parents have already expressed their support for these changes.

"Newfield School has a strong track record in the performing arts and this will remain a valued part of school life."

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