A Morden based charity is on the verge of taking over the running of a primary school after it was judged ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted.

Benedict Primary School, in Church Road Mitcham, was placed in special measures following an inspection in March 2013 and was told it must convert to an academy.

The report criticised the quality of teaching, weak achievement of pupils in reading, writing and mathematics and low levels of attendance.

Any school placed in special measures is now expected to be taken out of the control of its local authority and become an academy funded by central government alongside an independent sponsor - a change announced to parents in April.

Both the Harris Federation and Chapel St were in the frame to take over the failing school, however this week Chapel St were named the preferred choice of the school’s governing body.

Chapel St is a Morden based charity that works to improve community services and develops new schools and education services.

Russell Rook, CEO of Chapel St, said: "We’re excited by the prospect of welcoming Benedict Primary School into the Chapel St family of schools and honoured to serve local children and families.

"We'll work with staff and the community to develop a child-centred, family-focused and community-minded school that offers excellent education."

Hugh Betterton, interim chairman of governors, said: "We're pleased Chapel St will be the sponsor. "We particularly liked their focus on community engagement and their determination to drive up pupil attainment.

"We both want the best education for local children."

Benedict will be the borough's first primary academy and will join two secondary academies run by the Harris Federation - Harris Academy Merton and Harris Academy Morden.

Families and community members will have the opportunity to respond to a public consultation on the changes prior to the secretary of state signing a funding agreement with Chapel St as the school’s sponsor.