A WOLLASTON school has been forced to delay plans to become an academy.

Ridgewood High School on Park Road West, was due to convert on February 1but the plans have been shelved until later in the year as the Government has declined to provide financial support "at this time".

John Hodt, chair of governors, explained: "In the world of education we are becoming used to goal posts being moved and following recent discussions with the Department for Education it is now clear that due to a change in policy we will not be converting in the short-term.

"Whilst the Department for Education have recognised that the school’s 2013 results show the positive impact of action taken by the school to improve performance, they also note that an Ofsted inspection is due in the near future and consequently will not be entering into a funding agreement with the school at this time.

"As a result governors have taken the decision to suspend and defer any further action linked to academy status until the end of this academic year in order that normal school management policies and procedures can continue."