EDUCATION chiefs insist there are enough spare places at good or outstanding local schools to accommodate the 94 pupils of Durham Free School (DFS) once the under-fire Christian academy closes in just four weeks' time.

Barring a last-minute reprieve for DFS, its parents have just six weeks to find new schools for their children, after the Department for Education announced yesterday (Wednesday, February 25) funding for the Gilesgate school will cease on Friday, March 27 - the last day before the Easter holidays.

Parents have reacted angrily to Education Secretary Nicky Morgan's decision and quickly arranged an emergency governors' meeting tonight (Thursday) to discuss their next moves.

They could include confronting the minister when she visits the North-East tomorrow (Friday) and challenging the closure decision through the courts via a judicial review.

David Lewarne, whose daughter Jessica attends DFS, said: "We were really surprised and shocked.

"We want to see Nicky Morgan. We're convinced it's her minions making the decisions and she's not getting the message. We want her to come and see the school for herself."

Helen Constantine, mother of pupil Natasha, said: "I'm devastated. I just can't believe it. I'm worried about my daughter.

"I don't understand how this can go on. It's a great school."

The Northern Echo understands Ofsted inspectors were due to visit DFS to assess its recovery today (Thursday) and only called to cancel this morning (Thursday) - the day after Ms Morgan's announcement.

Ofsted declined to comment on the issue.

DFS leaders are still taking legal advice on what to do next.

But Caroline O'Neill, head of education at Durham County Council, said there were sufficient places at local schools rated good or outstanding by Ofsted for every child who is currently studying at DFS or made it their first choice for entry in September.

"Many parents have already been in touch and of those a number have also applied for an alternative school place," she said.

"We will work with parents and receiving schools to ensure that pupils have the smoothest possible transition to their new place of study.

"Any parents who would like support and advice on this can speak with the schools admissions team on 03000-265-896."

Craig Martin, Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Durham City, said Ms Morgan had put politics before education.