THE team behind Bexley’s first free school has launched a consultation to gather views from the community.

Parents, businesses and homeowners are asked to submit their views about the opening of the free school, due to launch in September in Rectory Lane, Foots Cray.

It will open with a reception class of 25 children and is expected to be at full capacity by 2019 with 175 students.

The consultation period begins on Wednesday (January 10) when an open evening will be held between 6pm and 8pm.

Consultation leader Mary Rouse said: “The entire team are from Sidcup, this is a real community project, and we want as many members of the community involved as possible.”

On January 26, the principal will meet with members of the community between 2pm and 4pm and on February 5, a second open evening will be held.

Visit hopecommunityschool.org to complete the online survey.