A new Birmingham school to ensure pupils who struggle to cope with traditional classrooms can receive a world-class education has been given the green light by Education Secretary Michael Gove.

The school will serve youngsters aged 13 to 16, including some who have been excluded.

It will aim to get them back on track in the classroom - and back into mainstream education, so that they are able to take A-levels in standard city schools.

The new school, which has not yet been named, is to be opened by East Birmingham Network, a partnership of 12 established schools including traditional comprehensives and academies.

It will provide places for just 90 pupils, spread across years Nine, Ten and 11, to ensure youngsters receive personalised teaching and pastoral care.

A site for the school has not yet been chosen, but it will be located in eastern Birmingham.

Marie Rooney, the East Birmingham Network’s Strategic Director, said: “We are over the moon following the announcement.

“It will be about excellence and high standards. In some cases it will give students a fresh start.”

The school will be one of the new range of “free schools” backed by the Government which are state funded but operated independently of local authorities.

Education Secretary Michael Gove said: “No child – regardless of their circumstances – should be denied an excellent education that is close to home. An education where teachers are free to decide what is best and where standards are high.

“Through Free Schools, we are breaking down barriers to make this a reality for some of the poorest and most vulnerable children in the country. The good schools lottery must end.”

Mr Gove also announced that the former Sutton Coldfield Magistrates Court, which was controversially closed in June despite local protests, had been earmarked as the site of a new free school.

Parents groups or other organisations hoping to open a school will be invited to submit proposals for using the building.