Bid to open new primary school in Kibworth moves a step closer

A bid to open a new primary school in Kibworth has moved a step closer.

The Leicester-based Discovery Trust says an application to set up the “primary Free School” in the Harborough village has progressed to an ‘in principle’ stage with the Department for Education new school programme.

The Government has agreed there is a strong case for a new primary school in the area.

Final approval is yet to be given.

But the Trust said “this is an important step to adding the much-needed primary school places for local children living in the Kibworths and surrounding area”.

The Discovery Trust’s attempt to open a new primary school in South Leicestershire is fully backed by Leicestershire County Council.

The school could be named “Cibbaeus” derived from “Cybba”.

Cybba is thought to be a legendary ancient Celtic King after whom ‘Kibworth’ is named and featured in the 2010 BBC documentary ‘The Story of England’.

Paul Stone, the Trust Leader of Discovery Trust, said: “From its initial inception, it is our founding belief that the new school should be rooted in the community and be reflective of the Kibworths’ unique history and character.

“If the new school is approved, we will work with all stakeholders and listen to their views to ensure we create a high-quality community school that the locality deserves.”

Paul added: “Discovery successfully opened Fossebrook Primary School in Leicester Forest East in 2015 which Ofsted judged to be a ‘Good’ school with ‘Outstanding’ features.

“This experience of opening a new school will help to ensure that this new school in Kibworth is opened successfully and the community will be at the heart of decision-making.”