Members of Brent Teachers Association say Michaela Community School could have a detrimental effect on pupils

Teaching unions have issued a strong response to the consultation on a proposed free school in Wembley Park.

Members of Brent Teachers Association say they are concerned that the school is not being built as a “community school” as billed and have said it could have a detrimental effect on pupils.

Earlier this month the proposed Michaela Community School held two consultation evenings, billed as a chance to ask questions about the school.

However, the meetings were slammed for being poorly attended and MCS was accused of not knowing enough about the area they plan to serve.

BTA says it is concerned at the proposed academic curriculum, the money spent on trying to set the school up and express fears of a local voice being lost over plans to bring in “self appointed governors”.

The school, which would be a free-school set-up by Katharine Birbalsingh, is planned for Arena House in North End Road, Wembley.

Free schools are controversial with their critics because they are able to manage their own finances, curriculum and admissions and do not answer to the local authority.

BTA also say there are dangers with the building given that an asbestos van was spotted outside it and calls on the school to release their findings.

MCS failed to respond to correspondence from the Times.