A CAMPAIGN group fighting plans to transform three Bolton schools into academies has stepped up its efforts by launching a petition.

Members of the Bolton Anti-Academy Alliance (AAA) say they have collected more than 2,000 signatures in support of their battle.

They oppose proposals to transform Withins School and Top o’ th’ Brow Primary School in Breightmet and Hayward School in Great Lever into flagship government academies.

Barry Conway, secretary of the National Union of Teachers in Bolton, is also a member of the AAA.

He said: “There is no evidence academies improve education. This move is ideological and political, not about learning.” Education chiefs issued a “notice of closure” for the three schools on October 21 and a six week consultation period is underway.

Councillors will vote on whether to shut the schools and convert them into academies on December 16.

Academies are managed by “sponsors” and the council says the scheme will attract £45 million in investment.

Those opposing the move are worried about the impact of involving private businesses in education.

The AAA has gathered more than 2,000 names since the closure notice was issued.

Members will continue to collect signatures and sheets are available to sign in shops throughout the Breightmet and Great Lever communities. The deadline for the petition is December 5 and it will be presented to the council that day.

A spokesman for Bolton Council said yesterday it could not comment during the consultation period. The council Executive will decide on the proposed closures on December 16.