A PARENTS’ campaign to create County Durham’s first free school has been fast-tracked for success.

The Durham Free School scheme is one of just 12 out of hundreds of applicants across the country to be invited to join a Development Programme run by the New Schools Network (NSN), a charity with close links to Education Secretary Michael Gove set up to help parents and teachers set up new schools.

Rachel Wolf, of the NSN, said the group showed ‘high potential’.

"We are excited by the prospect of working with the group over the coming months," she added.

Lead proposer John Denning, a teacher and father-of-four from High Shincliffe, said: "We are delighted to receive this support.

"For years, the people of Bowburn, Coxhoe and the surrounding villages have wanted their own secondary school. This news brings that one step closer."

It is hoped the new school will open in September 2013 with at least year seven classes, before later expanding up to year 11 and possibly sixth form level.

It would have a ‘traditional Christian ethos’ and be directly responsible to, and funded by, the Government - not Durham County Council.

Pupils would not be selected on performance grounds. Campaigners say their admissions criteria would help those in the ‘worst served areas’. No location for the school has yet been confirmed.

Some people claim a new school would damage existing schools.

But supporters say it would bring in millions of pounds extra in funding and create new jobs and are keen to gather more public backing for the campaign.

Mr Denning said: "The strong case that we are making to the Government is only one part of delivering a new school for these families.

"It is essential that people caring for children in these areas register their interest in a place. If they don’t do this, then the Government will not provide the money and there will be no school."

To register an interest, visit durhamfreeschool.org, email: info@durhamfreeschool.org or text: 07541-044619. All enquiries will be treated as confidential.

Campaigners hope to submit their proposals to the Government in the spring and get the go-ahead next autumn.