A BILINGUAL dream of Bromley children being taught in both French and English is to become a reality – in a former government building.

Since coming up with the idea of Bromley Bilingual Primary School (BBPS) around a year ago the parents behind the project have been looking at several sites in the borough.

But now they have settled on the old Department for Work and Pensions building in Westmoreland Place, Bromley.

And when it opens as a school in September next year it will be headed by Sebastien Chapleau, a Frenchman who lives in Beckenham and specialises in teaching foreign languages at primary level.

Dr Chapleau said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as principal designate.

“Bromley Bilingual will provide unique opportunities for local children to become global citizens and benefit from a bilingual education.

“It is a great challenge and honour to have been chosen to lead the school and I am very much looking forward to welcoming our first pupils in September 2014.”

The free school was approved for opening in May by the Department for Education following a successful application by CfBT Schools Trust and the parent proposer group.

Education charity CfBT is collaborating on a number of other free school projects across the country.

CfBT free school programme manager Jayne Soanes said: “Having been granted approval in May, the appointment of Sebastien is the next major milestone for Bromley Bilingual; it is really exciting to see the vision become a reality.

“We very much look forward to supporting Sebastien in his new role in leading the school.”

BBPS is still accepting applications for entry into reception, Year 1 and Year 2 for when it opens.

Click here for more information or call 0118 9021637.

And a public information meeting will be held on January 11 from 2pm to 3pm in the Chapel Room, Bromley United Reformed Church, Widmore Road, Bromley.

To attend the meeting RSVP by sending an email by January 8.