OBJECTIONS over a school's attempt to become a primary school have been dismissed by the Education Secretary.

St Ives First School will now open its doors in September as a primary school, after secretary of state, Nicky Morgan, gave the proposals the green light.

She was forced to rule on the move, after Dorset County Council objected at the eleventh hour.

The authority was condemned by Christchurch MP Chris Chope, who supported the school in their endeavour.

He described the council as "out of touch".

Commenting on the decision, he said: "I think it's a pity it took this long.

"This school is ambitious for itself and it should be allowed to do what it wanted without having to go through all this.

"The whole process has taken an inordinate amount of time. Fortunately it is in time for them to start in September; many less determined people would be put off by this.

"I have always been supportive of smaller organisations against the bigger ones, and this is a great victory for all involved."

St Ives consulted on the plans earlier this year, with 98 per cent of parents supportive of the changes.

Dorset County Council said they objected over concerns the school "has not fully understood the educational implications this would have for children and young people in the wider area."

They feared the proposal could 'destabilise' the educational system and cost millions of pounds.

Head teacher, Laura Crossley, said the school was 'delighted' by the decision.

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"It has not been an easy journey for everybody working to get the outcome that we believed in and that is right for all the children and community of St Ives.

"We look forward to welcoming Year 5 back to St Ives in September."