I read the article supporting academies written jointly by members of the Labour and Conservative parties.

I do not think trustees of academies can provide independent quality control. During a long period as a governor, I have learnt that external accountability for quality teaching and for financial matters is essential.

I have noted that while some headteachers are totally transparent and provide governors with full information, others are not, and provide only the information they wish their governors to know.

I believe accountability to the local council through council officers is absolutely essential.

Very sadly the Birmingham situation highlights the need for such external oversight.

Hove High School has been very successful, (as are other high schools in Brighton) and this is due to the headteacher and the quality of teaching.

Why not celebrate its success as a local authority school rather than getting into a debate over academies.

Juliet McCaffery former Labour councillor Clermont Terrace Brighton