The transformation of five Norfolk high schools into four academies has moved a step nearer - with a school in Gorleston among those earmarked for the switch.

The transformation of five Norfolk high schools into four academies has moved a step nearer - with a school in Gorleston among those earmarked for the switch.

Members of Norfolk County Council's cabinet yesterday agreed to publish a statutory notice for the closure of Oriel High in Gorleston as well as four other schools in Norfolk.

Shelagh Hutson, cabinet member for children's services, said: “It was a bit disappointing to see the results of the consultation in Thetford compared to the others. It is a wonderful opportunity for the people of Thetford.”

Statutory closure notices will be published on April 16. There would then be a six-week period for representations to be made to the council with a final decision at cabinet on June 14.

The Gorleston scheme will be funded via the government's national academies framework with completion expected by 2014.