• Susan O’Connor’s 12-year-old son has Downs Syndrome and attends the academy.

The Branksome mum said: “He’s settled in rather well and they’ve done everything possible to incorporate him.

“Hopefully they will improve things.”

• Kevin House, 47, from Parkstone, has a 14-year-old son there.

He said: “We had a few issues with the changes – a lot of teachers have gone and there are new faces.

“He’s quite happy now and that’s the main thing.”

• Sarah Brown, 40, from Parkstone, said: “My daughter’s in Year 11 and doing excellently.

“My son just joined and the staff have recognised his capabilities a lot more than his old school. He’s doing really well.”