Mum fears prosecution over lack of school place

Mar 8 2010 By Vicki Eltis

Beverley Campbell and her daughter Malaka

SINGLE Hersham mum Beverley Campbell who's daughter is yet to get into a school despite turning five next week fears she could face prosecution.

Miss Campbell, 35, of Celadine Road, has seen her daughter, Malaka, be turned down for three schools by Surrey County Councill, so moved to Hersham in a final last ditch attempt.

However, she was again turned down for two nearby and instead was told she could send her daughter to Grovelands, in Walton, more than 3km away.

Miss Campbell said: "I do not drive and do not want to put my daughter in a taxi with a stranger. The council are being awkward, whichever school I choose they turn me down. My daughter will turn five on Tuesday (February 16) and that is the age when they can start prosecuting me."

When Labour came into Government they promised every child would have access to a fair education.

Nan, Jacqueline Mayne, from Addlestone, added: "I think it's disgusting at this day in age. My granddaughter has had no pre-schooling and you hear education today is hot. She is going to be a year behind and it will only be her that's affected."

Ian Taylor MP for Esher and Walton said he would take on the case to ensure the council reviews all applications fairly.

He said: "Sadly, Miss Campbell is not alone in not getting the school she wants. She has to keep appealing. I am very concerned, in particular about vulnerable parents and children. We need to make sure all applications are being properly reviewed."

A spokeswoman at SCC admitted they were not able to offer Miss Campell schools within walking distance and confirmed she had been told they would provide transport.

A spokeswoman for SCC said: "Unfortunately the schools closest to Miss Campbell's new address are full at reception age. We are sorry that we have not been able to satisfy the preferences of Miss Campbell in this instance, however we are confident that all policies have been applied correctly and that an offer of a school place has been made to Malaka."