Norwich/Ixworth: Two New Free Schools Approved

22 May 2013, 11:10 | Updated: 22 May 2013, 17:05

More than 100 new free schools have been given the go ahead - including a new secondary school in Norwich and a new middle school in Ixworth.

Education Secretary Michael Gove approved more than 100 free school applications today, which will make up around 50,000 school places. 

One of those approved is the Jane Austen College in Norwich, a secondary school for 1,100 students that will specialise in English with every pupil studying a language until 16.

Plans to replace the village Middle School in Ixworth with a Free School have also been approved.

Education Secretary Michael Gove said: "There are many innovators in local communities set on raising standards of education for their children. I am delighted to approve so many of their high-quality plans to open a free school.

"Free schools are extremely popular with parents and are delivering strong discipline and teaching excellence across the country.''

Rachel de Souza is one of the people behind the plans for the new Free School in Norwich - she's spoken to Heart reporter Hannah Griffiths:

Jane Austen College - Rachel De Souza