A Bradford free school which had its funding cut two weeks before it was due to open says it has received confirmation from the Government that it can open next year.

The One In A Million Free School has received a letter from Lord Hill of Oareford, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Schools, which they say assures them of his full support for the project.

The charity, based at Bradford City Football Club, held an open evening which was attended by more than 100 parents, with 81 showing a strong expression of interest for their child to secure one of the 50 places available at its school.

In August, the Telegraph & Argus reported how concerns about poor pupil recruitment and the school’s viability led to the Department for Education deferring its funding agreement for 12 months and a scramble to find school places for pupils who had already signed up.

The school’s principal designate Jez Stockill said: “We will work tirelessly with the DfE over the next ten months to ensure that the school opening in September is the remarkable school of our vision.

“Our school appeals to parents because it is a small school, with small class sizes, excellent teachers, strong discipline, a commitment to literacy and numeracy with a focus on arts, enterprise and sports.

“Equally the students are excited about attending the One In A Million Free school not only because of its commitment to arts, enterprise and sport but because of its innovative and cutting-edge ICT solutions that will mean every student having access to an Apple iPad.”

The charity’s chief executive Matthew Band said: “We have learned from our work in the community that if you engage young people with exciting projects, they thrive and develop.

“We will use what we have learnt to ensure One In A Million Free Schools ensures success for all our students.”

For an application form contact the school on (01274) 723439 or for more information visit oneinamillion.org.

uk/freeschool.