Pictured above: Nick Abell

Coventry could be one of the first places to take advantage of the Government's parent-run schools programme, after a leading law firm launched a new service.

The new coalition Government announced legislation to allow parents and teachers to establish and run new, state funded schools in the Queen's speech.

It will give parents the chance to decide how a school is run, where it is based, draft a curriculum and set a mission statement.

A business plan, which will need the involvement of lawyers and accountants, will be submitted to the education secretary and, if he approves, funding will be given per pupil admitted.

Leamington Spa based solicitors, Wright Hassall, says it is willing to provide the first three groups of people free advice on what is required to set-up a new school so that 'trailblazing local people aren't afraid of exploring the options'.

Nick Abell, senior partner at Wright Hassall, said: "This is new ground for everyone so if there are parents and teachers who are enthusiastic about this new opportunity, we're ready to explain what is required.

"Judging from the early reaction to the news, there are people who are excited by the chance to create better state schools.

"We have been a Warwickshire firm since we were founded some 150 years ago, so we know the area extremely well, and we have vast experience dealing with schools and charities.

"We're looking forward to being involved in these groundbreaking early projects, and the best way to encourage people to take that first step is to offer a free helping hand through the early stages."

For more information on Wright Hassall, please visit their website here: www.wrighthassall.co.uk