Still no ‘Free Schools’ run by Black Teachers

In sheer desperation and frustration in regards to not being given permission to set up a ‘Free School’, two African-Caribbean teachers will challenge the Department of Education as to why their application was rejected. Ms Johnson and Ms Broni sought to set up the school, in part to help steer Black boys away from gang culture and towards academic success.

Their plans include the guarantee of three months' work experience to all pupils leaving school to avoid their being sent out on to the streets and becoming prey to gang culture. More than 50 employers had signed up to act as mentors.

The two women are particularly disappointed with what critics have described as an ‘opaque’ procedure, one that does not follow the laws under the 2010 Equality act.

Taking their case to the High Court, Mr Justice Leggatt, ruled that Ms Johnson had "an arguable case" that should be heard as a matter urgency.

David Wolfe QC, appearing for Ms Johnson, will argue at the full court hearing that the Education Secretary failed to have due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity for both black pupils, and the African Caribbean women who want to set up the school.

Mr Wolfe will also argue there was unfairness because Ms Johnston and Ms Broni, were not given an opportunity to respond to concerns about the merits of their project before it was rejected.

According to reports a significant number of African and Caribbean consortiums applied to set up ‘Free Schools’, with only one being successful: The proposal for the Michaela Community School run by Katherine Birbalsingh. Birbalsingh, who has good connections within the Conservative party, but her school plans have had little support in both Lambeth and Wandsworth. She is now seeking permission to set up the school in Brent.

Last July a senior Cambridge University admissions tutor condemned the Education Secretary's decision on the Diaspora High, saying the Government's flagship free schools policy served only "the ruthlessly ambitious middle classes and religious zealots".

He accused the Department for Education of racism and sexism.

The Diaspora High case will be heard in April.

Simon Woolley