The school of learning disability charity Kisharon has been formally recognised as a free school by the Department for Education, a move its leaders believe will make it a more viable option for many parents.

Work has begun on a £12.5 million redevelopment of the school, which will reopen in its new Hendon premises in 2020.

The signing of the free school agreement was hailed by Kisharon chairman Philip Goldberg as an “exceptional result in helping the charity to realise its bold vision.

“Education is at the cornerstone of the Jewish religion and Kisharon’s ethos and this development is essential in allowing the people we support to continue achieving success without limits.”