Three primary schools in Barnet have started consultations on plans to become academies and establish a new multi-academy trust in the borough.

Foulds Primary School, Martin Primary School and Northside Primary School will consult with staff, pupils, parents and other schools until Friday, November 22.

The schools’ governing bodies voted in September for the proposals to go ahead subject to consultation. In December they will review a report on the consultations and vote on whether to proceed with the plans.

If they agree, the schools hope to have a decision from the Secretary of State for Education on their sponsor status before December 25 this year.

The schools, which all have 'outstanding' Ofsted ratings, would then convert to academy status during spring 2014.

The schools have already committed to signing the Barnet Accord which encourages a "strong partnership" between Barnet Borough Council and schools that have converted to academy status.