A HALSTEAD primary school has said it is on schedule to convert to an academy in five months.

Richard de Clare Primary School, in Parsonage Street, wants to join North Essex Multi Academy Trust ,which comprises Notley High School, Braintree Sixth Form and Ramsey Academy.

The school, rated good by Ofsted inspectors, has asked parents for support and offered two open meetings, although no-one attended the first.

Headteacher Sarah Donnelly said: "We had a good turn out for the second meeting.

"Parents and staff have rightly asked lots of questions, but the overwhelming response is that they are happy that we plan to become an academy with Nemat, a local option with lots to offer and they are happy that we are making our own decisions and choosing our own destiny.

"The application is now with the Department for Education and all the processes have begun pending their decision.

"We are on track for our September 1 conversion plan."

The school's consultation period ended on Wednesday.