A ‘HUGE relief’ for parents.

That is how a change to a proposed admissions shake-up at Prince Henry’s Grammar School has been described by a headteacher.

The Otley secondary has concluded a consultation on plans to alter its admissions policy by adding a ‘preference’ for pupils from Bramhope Primary, with which it is forming a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT).

Its proposals have drawn criticism from parents and politicians who raised a number of concerns - including fears that some pupils at Pool C of E Primary could be disadvantaged.

But now Pool is to be named as a ‘feeder’ school too, after 88 per cent (122 people) of those who responded to the consultation voiced opposition. Of those, the majority cited concerns about the impact on Pool.

Headteacher of Pool Primary Sally Fox, in a letter announcing the change, said: “The Governing Body at Pool and I offer our very grateful thanks to all members of our community who took the time to respond to the consultation. For some of our families, this news will come as a huge relief and will no doubt be a very special Christmas present!”

MP Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds North West) said: “This is a welcome change to the proposals and I am glad Prince Henry’s have responded to concerns that I raised regarding Pool Primary.

“I know this news will be very welcome to children and parents in Pool. However, I still hold deep reservations about this Multi Academy trust due to the overall effect it has on schools in Leeds.”

Councillor Barry Anderson (Con, Adel & Wharfedale) said: “I am very pleased with the outcome . It is important the admissions policy reflects the local situation: residents in Pool look towards Otley for most of their amenities and facilities.

“I would like to pay tribute to the Headteacher and Chair of Governors at Pool Primary, and their team, for coordinating the campaign, and also the role played by the Parish Council.”

Headteacher at Prince Henry’s, Janet Sheriff, said: “Governors and Trustees have amended the original policy proposal for the reasons explained in the consultation report, which is available on our website.

“The amendment was agreed after reviewing a range of information from the consultation, not as a result of the submission from any individual. The majority of Leeds secondary schools are now academies and an increasing number of primary schools are joining MATs.”