TEACHING unions say they are treating an academy consultation as “genuine” ahead of public meetings tomorrow.

Seven schools considering cutting their ties with Harrow Council are inviting parents, pupils, staff and residents to take part in a debate that could have a major impact on the future of education in the borough.

Strikes over the proposals are being considered and the five unions representing teaching and non-teaching staff are urging parents, pupils employees and residents to get involved in the consultation.

Nick Grant, of the National Union of Teachers (NUT), said: “We can only take them at their word. We've been assured by all of the headteachers in the schools that the consultation is genuine.

“We are concerned at the obvious co-ordination and preparation by the headteachers. We are concerned for example that each of the schools is holding a consultation evening simultaneously.

“We are not sure why that's necessary.”

He added: “Strikes are still being considered inside the schools but there's no absolute, definite decision made yet.

“It's not the only option in terms of registering the opposition – most schools are having some kind of a staff ballot.”

Nower Hill, Hatch End, Canons High, Harrow High, Rooks Heath, Bentley Wood, and Park High, are all having consultation meetings tomorrow.

For details check individual school websites.