AN ‘OUTSTANDING’ special school in Oxford has applied to Education Secretary Michael Gove for permission to convert to an academy.

Governors at Northern House School, in South Parade, Summertown, agreed unanimously to apply to convert.

The school, rated outstanding by Ofsted, will consult parents and the community in the near future over the move.

Chairman of governors Michael Benson said: “This follows several months of many conversations with headteacher David Barker, school staff and members of the local authority.”

He said he believed freedoms to set the curriculum, employ staff directly, and vary school term dates and hours would help raise standards “even higher”. Mr Benson added: “Our school has a long and distinguished history of giving high quality care and education to children who struggle and offering support for their families throughout Oxfordshire.”

The school, which has about 60 pupils, caters for children aged five to 13 who have behavioural, emotional and social difficulties.

A date has not yet been set for conversion, which would not be decided until permission has been granted and a final decision made by the governors following consultation.

To find out more or to give your view, email academyconsultation@northernhouse.oxon.sch.uk