To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills how many meetings of the shadow academy for the Isle of Sheppey there have been; and if he will publish the minutes of the meetings. (118269)

[holding answer 2 February 2007]: There have been seven meetings of the Isle of Sheppey academy project steering group since June 2006. The purpose of this group is to test the feasibility of the Academy proposals. The outcome will inform our subsequent decisions on whether to enter into a funding agreement with the academy trust, which would be established by the sponsors. It is not our practice to publish PSG minutes.

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills which company has been employed by the shadow academy group for the Isle of Sheppey to provide a valuation of the sites of the three middle schools. (118271)

[holding answer 2 February 2007]: Under our new model for delivering academy buildings, the responsibility for the design and subsequent construction of this proposed academy would rest with the local authority. Site valuations form part of this process. Glenny LLP have been employed by Kent county council from its existing approved supplier framework to provide these valuations.

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what alternative plans have been developed for secondary schools on the Isle of Sheppey should the proposed Academy be turned down. (118274)

[holding answer 2 February 2007]: The provision of school places within its area is a matter for Kent county council.