THE consultation over St Barnabas’ Primary School’s conversion to an academy ended last week.

The school, which has been accepted into Blackburn Diocese’s multi-academy trust ‘Cidari’, is expected to become an academy from September.

A school spokesman said: “Please rest assured that in no way are we being forced to become an academy.

“Our information evening for parents held last month marked the beginning of the consultation process with parents and school community and we are always available to answer your questions.

“Feel free to come into school and talk to Mrs Howarth, Mrs Thomas or Mrs Fernandez.”

As reported in yesterday’s Lancashire Telegraph, deputy head Helen Thomas will take over next year when head Alison Howarth retires.