Update: 14th September 2000)
Islington Arts and Media School (formerly George Orwell School)
This evening there will be the first of three documentaries on the "Fresh-Start" school Islington Arts and Media School (IAMS). The then principal, Torsten Vriedag, gave the BBC free access to the school between September 1999 and March 2000. It is understood that the programmes will concentrate on the negative aspects of the school and will not be flattering to say the least.
The programme may not make allowances for improvements made since Torsten Vriedag left. John Hudson was seconded as acting head from Holloway Boys School during the Summer term to fill the gap and a new permanent head, Richard Ewen has taken up post this month. When OFSTED revisited at the end of June/early July the complimented the school on improvements in behaviour, attendance, lesson preparation and the development of plans to develop the curriculum.
Islington has asked for a "right to reply" from the BBC, but has not yet received a reply.
Unfortunately the new management of the school has inherited a large financial deficit. Locally, we are sure who is to blame for mismanagement. That individual may be blaming others for his mistakes this evening.