PLANS to create a new primary school in north Worcester have moved a step closer to fruition.

The Rivers CofE Academy Trust said it was delighted to have gone through to the next stage of the free school process.

The Department for Education is set to hold a final interview to determine whether the proposals will be given the green light to open a new primary school.

A shortfall in places in the north of the city for last year's new intake saw the trust apply for a new all-through primary school for children aged three to 11 with plans submitted in September 2016.

Northwick Manor Primary School created a "bulge" class in September so the four to five year olds who missed out on a place were able to attend a school in their community taking their intake from 90 to 120.

It is hoped the new school will be open by September 2018.

If approved, the new school will be called North Worcester Primary School and replicate the current model of Northwick Manor Primary School.

The school will take its first 60 reception pupils next year, reaching its full potential of 420 pupils of primary age over seven years.

An exact location for the school will be found once the plans have been approved.

Kate Brunt, CEO from Rivers CofE Academy Trust, said: "We are delighted that the DfE have recognised the clear evidence of need locally in North Worcester.

"I would also like to thank the parents and the local community with the overwhelming support we have received so far.

"At Rivers we understand that our parents want more than just academic achievement.

"Our values and ethos allows us, as a trust, to give our children the right tools to live with and prepare them for the next stage of their life."

The Rivers CofE Academy Trust was formed in October 2014 and is a group of seven "Good" and "Outstanding" schools spread across Worcestershire - all varying in size, economic, social backgrounds and religion.

They are Northwick Manor, St Clement's CofE Primary, St Peter's Droitwich CofE Academy, Cranham Primary, Cutnall Green CofE Primary, Great Witley CofE Primary, and Heronswood Primary.