BOLTON’S second free primary school is set to open in September this year, with an initial intake of 120 pupils.

A public consultation about the proposed Essa Primary Free School has been launched so people can have their say on Bolton’s latest state-funded independent school.

The primary school in Great Lever will be the second free primary school after the opening of The Olive Tree in Daubhill, at the start of this academic year.

The move will transform Essa Academy into a super school, educating children aged four to 16.

The school plans to take 60 children in nursery, 30 in reception. It will be non-denominational, with the school “embracing diversity and inclusivity” and will open on the campus.

Sikander Badat, project director, said: “The school will provide educational excellence and will aim to achieve an ‘outstanding’ from Ofsted right from the start, in a safe environment.

“All children will be supported to achieve their full potential and develop into independent learners, irrespective of their background, culture, ethnic origin, religion or any other status.

“Essa Primary will build upon the learning principles of Essa Academy and continue to embed its ethos of technology for creativity.

“This will allow a high degree of personal and parental engagement.”

He added: “Essa Primary will be part of the family of Schools in Bolton and work in close partnership with Essa Academy and other schools in the borough of Bolton.”

Views on the new free school can be submitted any time up to 5pm on Saturday, February 15.

There will also be a public consultation drop-in event on Tuesday, January 21, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

For more information or to take part in the consultation on the proposed school, visit essaprimary.org