LONDON – The government took a major step in reforming the education system on Friday by inviting interested parties to spell out their plans in setting up "free schools".

The Department for Education (DfE) is publishing an application form for parents, teachers and charities, to outline the school's aims, curriculum, teaching methods and possible locations.

The non-fee-paying schools despite being independent will be funded by the central government.

Education Secretary Michael Gove said free schools will help in closing the achievement gap between rich and poor and face closure if they fail.

"We have one of the most segregated, stratified school systems in the developed world," he told BBC Radio 4.

"I am not anticipating failure. I am anticipating success. But we will be rigorous in ensuring that those who do go down this road are equipped to make it a success. And if they falter, if things goes wrong, if there's any jiggery-pokery, schools will close," he added.

The National Union of Teachers (NUT) however warned that such a free market policy will create "chaos" at the local level.

The first "free schools" are expected to open in September next year.

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