A NEW free school is set to open in Poole next year after being given the green light by the Department for Education.

The Harbour Special Free School, proposed by the Delta Education Trust, which already operates the Quay School in Poole, submitted an application for the new school earlier in the year, along with seven others in the South West region.

The proposed Special School will provide up to 60 places for children aged between 10 and 19 with autistic spectrum conditions and related anxiety and speech and language needs.

Delta Education Trust received confirmation that the plans for the school have been approved to open from September next year, which will serve children in Bournemouth, Poole and Dorset.

Jo Perry, CEO of the Delta Education Trust said that all three councils have identified a gap in provision in this area, with pupils having to travel long distances to schools out of the area. She added: "This is an exciting opportunity to create a special place to learn at the heart of our community where each child will be able to develop their individual skills and talents and flourish.

"This is just the beginning of our journey and there are many challenges to come. I would like to thank council officers, Quay School parents, staff and Governors who have provided unstinting support throughout the application process.

"A number of families have already come forward to support our proposals and we look forward to working with them and the local community as we move towards opening our gates for the first time."

Over the coming weeks, Delta Education Trust are set to release the location of the new school and it will be hosting public meetings for parents and residents interested in finding out more about the school.

The Harbour Special Free School will be a brand new state special school, approved as part of the Government's free schools programme.

Free schools are new, independent state schools which can be set up by charities, groups of teachers, existing schools and parents if they can show that they are needed and wanted by a local community. They are free to attend and open to all children. They do not charge, make a profit or select their pupils on the basis of ability.