A DEPTFORD primary school has confirmed it will apply for academy status.

Governors of Tidemill School made the decision in a meeting last night (December 2) while protestors held a vigil outside.

The plans to become an academy had met with a strong opposition campaign from some parents along with councillors and Lewisham Deptford MP Joan Ruddock.

Parent Leila Galloway, 46, said campaigners, who are concerned about the school being outside council control, would now apply for a judicial review of the decision.

She said: “I’m absolutely disappointed with the governors. I’ve put in a six-page letter of complaint to the school about it.

“There are lots of things I’m not happy about with the process.”

The school statement said: “For over a century, Tidemill School has served the people of Deptford, educating generations of local children.

“Last night (December 2), Tidemill's governing body took the next step of that journey when it was agreed that the school would apply for academy status.

"This decision was made following an extensive consultation period, which commenced in July, and asked parents, staff and the local community for their views.

"Tidemill will continue to provide a quality education for all children in Deptford and the local area.

"The school remains in the state sector and there are no plans to change its admissions criteria.

“Tidemill School will continue to play an active role in the local community, alongside our neighbouring schools and local partners, making sure that Deptford children have the best possible start in life."