The Government's Education Secretary has firmly cemented 'aspiration' into the foundations of Bexley's first free school.

Nicky Morgan visited the Hope Community School in Foots Cray on September 16 and has praised the vision, commitment and focus of staff, pupils and parents.

James Brokenshire joined Mrs Morgan during a tour of the school where they spoke to children and teaching staff. 

Head Teacher Lisa Morris explained how Hope sought to provide a distinctive community ethos as part of its focus on giving local children the best start to their education.

The Education Secretary was also shown the current construction work on Hope’s new school building and was asked by Chair of Governors Paul Weston to write a word on the first brick and lay it for the building. 

Mrs Morgan wrote ‘aspiration’ and said: "I hope the school will help children aim high for the future."