I AM writing in reference to the recent article Price rise has driven me out (Gazette, August 13).
As the headteacher of Swakeleys School I would like to explain the reasons behind the recent price increase for after-school activities.
We recognise the importance of community clubs and after-school activities for children, and in the past we have offered significant concessions to community groups who wish to use the school for this purpose.
Unfortunately this is something we are unable to continue in the long term due to a limited budget.
The school does not profit from any clubs run for the community and the costs that are incurred are to cover the running cost of keeping the school open for the duration of any activities, including the rising costs of energy and site maintenance.
All decisions relating to how much money is spent each year is approved with the board of governors and this year, the decision was made to use some of the budget we have previously used for these concessions to invest in education for those that attend the school.
I have personally met with all people that currently hold activities in the school facilities to try and reach a compromise of how the increase in costs could be covered by a phased increase in fees, and will continue to work with them on this.
SUE PRYOR, headteacher, Swakeleys School, Clifton Gardens, Hillingdon.
