Sir – Martin Sheldon returns to the subject of public consultation in relation to a proposal for an academy at Oxford School (Letters, November 26). His letter also continues to link St Christopher’s Primary school to the proposal.

Before I reply to the substance of his letter I should like to state, unequivocally, that St Christopher’s is not part of that proposal, a fact which has been in the public domain for some time now!

I am pleased to say that the Department for Children, Schools and Families has now responded positively to the expression of interest for an academy, submitted by Oxfordshire County Council.

This means that a full public consultation can proceed in which the arguments for an academy will be set out in the context of our plans for education in that community. It is envisaged that the consultation will start very early in the New Year.

Michael Waine, Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member for schools improvement