A town’s first secondary school in 25 years has been given the go-ahead after a two year wait.

The bid for The Ongar Academy was today approved by the Department for Education and signals the end of a quarter of a century in which Ongar has had no secondary school.

The school, which is set to be opened in September 2015, will cater for 750 children and a sixth form.

The approval follows 990 letters of interest from local parents and over 2000 signatures supporting the opening of the school.

Chair of The Ongar Academy Trust Pete Marchant said “We are simply overjoyed that after all our hard work we have finally got through.

“This really is a truly momentous occasion. The group have put blood, sweat and tears into this and it is just a marvellous achievement, both for them and the people of Ongar.”

The school is currently deciding between four possible locations, with preference over land adjacent to Ongar Leisure Centre in Fyfield Road.

Interviews for the schools Principle role are set to take place next week.

Project Lead, Jeff Banks said “From here on the hard work really begins.

“We worked hard over the summer with a team of experienced current and recently retired Headteachers, who assisted us in putting together the information we needed to attract a top class Principal.

“It’s an absolutely essential role and we were determined to get it right.”

Further information will be made available including full details of how to apply for a place and a series of parents meetings are planned over the coming months.

Applications to The Ongar Academy will be possible up to Christmas 2014.