AN independent boarding school preparing to convert to a state-funded Free School is to expand its year seven entry due to demand.

Polam Hall School, in Darlington, will add an extra class of 26 pupils to its September intake this year due to the high number of applications from the local area.

The school, which caters for children aged between four and 18, has agreed with the Department for Education to have three classes in year seven, catering for 78 pupils.

Since announcing its intention to convert to Free Scohol status Polam Hall said it has received a large number of applications, particularly for year seven, the first year of senior school.

Most of the applications are said to be from families living within the Darlington catchment area, the DL1 and DL3 postcodes.

The school's agreement with the DfE on its admissions policy is that 60 per cent of places in the school must be guaranteed for children living in Darlington.

Headteacher John Moreland said: "We had always considered that a third form entry would be likely at some stage, but with the local demand for places being far greater than anticipated we are now advised by the DfE to set this up from the outset.

"It is hugely encouraging to see such interest in our school and we remain committed to meeting parents’ expectations, which means not compromising on the quality of the education we offer."

Class sizes will be increased to meet demand - 24 for primary classes and 26 for senior classes - which Mr Moreland said the school had lobbied the DfE for to "protect our future robustness without damaging pupil-teacher ratios".