THE principal of Earls High School has released a statement concerning the school's bid to be an academy.

Ahead of a demonstration on Thursday by parents, teachers and union activists being held outside the school gates Tom Johnston laid out his and the governors position. He said: "The Governors of The Earls High School are considering the possibility of applying for Academy status.

"Governors are anxious to maintain the very high standards of teaching and learning within the school."

He added: "The school recently achieved its best examination results ever, securing the school’s place as one of the most successful in Dudley."

Mr Johnston pointed to the positive financial implications of becoming an academy for the school.

He said: "Becoming an Academy school may supply the greater level of financial flexibility needed to maintain these high standards at a time of national financial constraint.

"The Governors are currently engaged in a thorough consultation exercise with all of the school’s stakeholders."