Warren School will become an academy in September after an attempt by parents and governors to challenge the decision was today thrown out by the High Court,

Education Secretary Michael Gove made the controversial plan to take the Chadwell Heath school out of council control after Ofsted put the school in special measures last year - despite widespread resistance.

A statement released by Barking and Dagenham Council said it was “very disappointed” by the ruling.

“The court has decided that the Secretary of State’s decision, whilst not in our opinion in the best interests of the children’s education at The Warren, is not unlawful,” it said.

“The staff at The Warren School and the Local Authority will continue to prioritise the interests of the children as they move forward from this decision.

“We are currently considering the judgement and are unable to comment further at this time.”

During a public consultation, 85 per cent of respondents were in favour of the school remaining a local authority school while working with Robert Clack School to make improvements.

Jon Cruddas MP has previously described Mr Gove’s decision as treating the school with “absolute derision and contempt”.

More reaction to the news to follow.

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Michael Gove to turn Warren School into academy, ‘despite parents’ wishes’