At a time when schools and governors are committing their energies to raising standards, it is a pity that local government continues to make maintaining central council services. its sole priority.

Ripon governors weighed carefully what is best for our students. We want to bring enterprise into education. The Department for Education and Skills has recognised the importance of local decisions over local provision, perhaps it is time the LGA recognised this change and encouraged local authorities to do the same.

Annette Beckwith Chair of governors Ripon College Clotherholme Road Ripon, North Yorkshire