SCHOOL bosses are set for a face-off with an outspoken councillor in a bid to cool her war of words.
John Fowler, head of Shelley College, wants to meet Kirkburton councillor Christine Smith after her verbal assault on school pupils.
In a letter this week Clr Smith said she was "appalled" by what she had seen of pupils of the Huddersfield Road college.
She said pupils at the 1,400-strong school were "scruffy" and complained about their behaviour.
She added: "It is difficult to distinguish the boys from the girls, as they all look untidy, with shirts flapping, no ties and an assortment of shoes, including trainers.
"Shelley once had a reputation of being a first-class school and college with students who were a credit to it. No more."
Mr Fowler said the councillor's blast came as a complete shock as the school had never had any contact with her.
He added: "Our students are offended, affronted and disbelieving that this can be what people think.
"Some of them are angry because the school has been badly represented.
"I intend to get in touch with Clr Smith and get her to spend a morning at Shelley College."
Mr Fowler said 2004's exam results were the best the school had ever produced and the school sixth form had to refuse any more applications because it was full.
He added: "Students don't wear ties in our school uniform and they are allowed to wear their shirts untucked.
"My view as head is that it is very unfortunate that she has this view.
"I respect her right to hold this view, but believe it's nothing like the reality of our school.
"We have had many message of support from other schools, other councillors, parents, governors and members of the public."
