GOVERNORS at an Eastwood school have quit en-masse just days after being ordered to put a rapid improvement plan in place.

Southend Council raised a series of issues with the governors at Heycroft Primary School, in Benvenue Avenue, “in relation to the way the school was being managed”. 

Several warnings were issued before a formal warning notice was issued on January 19 ordering the governors to submit a “rapid improvement plan”. Days later, the entire governing body resigned. 

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It is understood that the warnings were not linked to the quality of education at the school. However, according to the school’s finances on the Government’s website, Heycroft was spending more than they were making.

The school’s expenditure for 2021-22 was £2.16 million compared to an income of £2.11 million, meaning the school’s in-year balance was minus £51,100. However, the figures also show there was cash in reserve.

Laurie Burton, Labour councillor responsible for children and learning, said: “It is disappointing that the governing body felt the need to resign, but I would like to thank them for their work and commitment to the school to date.

“I want to reassure parents that the school, with the support of the local authority, continues to work closely to promote the best possible education and opportunities for all children.”

The council confirmed it is now in the process of applying to the Department for Education to set up an interim executive board.

While this process is ongoing, the school will be run by the head of school, Andy Abel, and the executive headteacher, Glenn Moore.  

Mr Moore said: “Our priority is the ongoing education of our children and making sure that their day-to-day life in the classroom is not disrupted in any way, by these changes.

“Parents have been informed of the situation and both the head of school, and myself are available to answer any questions.”

Southend Council insisted the issues at the school did not relate to the education of the children.

The last inspection by Ofsted saw Heycroft rated as “good” by inspectors.