Plans to launch a free school in Ipswich have been unveiled in a bid to meet an increasing demand for primary school places.

The Ipswich Primary Academies Trust currently runs St Helen’s Primary School in Woodbridge Road, The Oaks Primary School in Aster Road and Whitton Primary School in Shakespeare Road, and has announced plans to create a ‘sister school’ to St Helen’s in light of high admissions applications.

Clare Flintoff, principal of St Helen’s Primary School and executive principal of the Ipswich Primary Academies Trust, said: “Demand for places at St Helen’s and in the local area has been increasing and unfortunately we are not able to offer places to all who apply.

“This pressure is only likely to increase with likely population increases. This is a response to that need but it’s also wanting that high quality educational offer that’s provided at St Helen’s.”

Each year the school accepts 60 new pupils, and last year received more than 90 applications.

While proposals are in the early stages, the trust aims to locate the school close to St Helen’s.

This week, an online consultation has opened in which parents and members of the community can share their support, questions and comments.

A bid for the school is due to be submitted in September after views from the community have been sought, with an earliest estimated opening date of September 2018.

Mrs Flintoff added: “We are really excited about a potential new school for Ipswich Primary Academies Trust and really hope to be able to meet the needs of our community by providing a school which will build on the high standards we have achieved at St Helen’s.”

To make a comment or raise a question, visit www.ipswichprimaryacademiestrust.org/home/free-school or alternatively email s.wilder@sthelensprimary.net.