A LOCAL councillor has welcomed a commitment by the controversial Mossbourne Federation education trust , which runs three schools in the east of Thurrock, to review its procedures and to reaffirm its commitment to partnership working.

Since taking over the former Gable Hall and Hassenbrook secondary schools and Corringham primary school at the beginning of 2025 Mossbourne has been dogged by criticism locally - and at its schools in Hackney, which were subject to a dammning BBC documentary.

The trust's focus on discipline, described by many as 'Draconian' has been at the heart of criticism. Locally, children have been heavily punished for minor infractions and forced to abide by a code of conduct that means they cannot enter local shops and must meet specific requirements about when and where they can wear uniform.

Since Mossbourne took over, more than 100 schildren have been withdrawn from its schools by parents.

Today (Friday, 20 March) the Mossbourne Federation issued a release outlining how it will take forward the recommendations of a recently published review, reaffirming its commitment to partnership working, continuous learning and the highest standards of care for its pupils.

It says: "The Federation has reorganised its Central Federation Board to strengthen governance capacity, including a specific focus on governance and enhanced assurance in relation to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing.

"A dedicated Implementation Committee has been established to oversee this work.

"The Committee brings together experienced leaders and safeguarding expertise from across the system, including Directors of Education from Hackney and Thurrock, as well as a qualified social worker. It is chaired by Toby Campbell Gray and reports through the Federation's established governance structures.

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"The Committee is actively taking evidence from a wide range of professionals, ensuring that any actions taken are informed, balanced and focused on achieving the best outcomes for children.

"The Federation has a long-standing record of delivering strong outcomes for young people, including in communities where educational challenges have been significant.

"This work continues to be underpinned by a clear focus on safety, structure and high expectations. Safeguarding processes remain firmly embedded at school level, led by staff who know pupils and families well.

"These processes are supported by Federation-wide systems that provide additional oversight, visibility and assurance. The Federation will continue to engage openly and constructively as this work progresses."

Peter Hughes, Chief Executive of the Mossbourne Federation, added: "We are committed to working in partnership with others and to learning wherever there are opportunities to strengthen our practice.

"This work is being taken forward through a strong and experienced group, drawing on expertise from across the system, to ensure that any actions we take are thoughtful, proportionate and focused on achieving the best outcomes for children."

Stanford-le-Hope Homesteads ward councillor Gary Byrne has been at the forefront of local criticism of Mossbourne and he welcomed the statement, saying: "Its shows we are doing something towards influencing change and they are being forced to change."

Related stories:

Leaders challenge Mossbourne: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/thurrock-council-leaders-finally-challenge-mossbourne-publicly-and-ask-minister-to-investigate-climate-of-fear-281843

Parents' concerns: https://thurrock.nub.news/news/local-news/mums-criticise-school-over-unnecessary-detention-policy-279399