Salford and Eccles MP Rebecca Long-Bailey is to speak at a debate on the future of education in Salford.
‘The Future of Salford Schools – Question Time’ takes place on Saturday 30 January at Buile Hill Hall.
Salford City UNISON, which is hosting the event, is inviting parents and school staff to discuss the upcoming Education and Adoption Bill.
The bill is pushing to replace schools managed by local authorities with privately-controlled academies.
Also appearing are Alasdair Smith from the Anti Academies Alliance; Martin Shevill, the CEO of Consilium Academies, and David Wootten from Salford Academy Trust.
Unions fear the government plans to force through another wave of school academy takeovers, and what impact it might have on children, parents and school staff.
In March last year Irlam and Cadishead College a highly critical Ofsted report put the school into special measures.
It came under the leadership of the Salford Academy Trust in April.
The Salford Academy Trust (SAT), made up of Salford City College, Salford City Council and the University of Salford was formed as a not-for-profit in June 2012 to oversee academies in Salford.
A spokesperson for Salford City Union said: “Unison is opposed to academisation but we believe it is important we have the fullest debate, both honest and transparent to ensure the right decisions are made.
“This is particularly important at a time where school funding, particularly in areas like Salford is under threat.”
Questions to the panellists can be submitted in advance to office@salfordcityunison.org.uk or on the day.
The debate runs from 12pm–2pm, at Buile Hill Park Hall, Buile Hill Park, Eccles Old Rd, Salford, M6 8GL.
