As I understand it, the newer pupils want a resolution that clears the St James schools of any adverse connections to the past.
The aim of the 'oldies' on this site is not to harm St James or its pupils, but to a) seek redress from those adults who were deemed culpable for the abuses that were highlighted in the recent Townend Inquiry, and b) to ensure that the SES doctrine which was so instrumental in initiating the said abuses, cannot again cause harm.
In the interests of progress, I am interested to know how pupils, past and present, feel about the demands put forward in the open letter. (The opinions of parents and others on this site would also be appreciated.) Which parts do people agree/disagree with; can any other resolutions be put forward etc.
So, in a spirit of reconciliation, here is a recap of the demands. I await your considered comments and observations.
1) The resignation of all current governors who were teachers or governors at St James or St Vedast during the period considered in the Townend report.
2) The termination of contracts of any teachers currently employed who were identified by Mr Townend as guilty of persistent acts of excessive punishment, including criminal assault.
3) The Schools to undertake genuine consultation with current parents on reform of the Schools' governance (including the appointment of non-SES governors), and that you act on the results of this consultation.
4) Complete transparency over the SES's influence over the St James Schools - including addressing governance, management, staffing, recruitment of pupils into the SES, curriculum, philosophy, and ethos.