A planning application for the construction of a two-form entry primary section at Yavneh College in Borehamwood has been given the green light by Hertsmere councillors.

Parents of prospective pupils turned out in force at the committee meeting, at which the application was unanimously approved - "a very positive affirmation of what we are trying to achieve", said governors' chair Sue Nyman.

"Our objective is to open with the reception year in September 2012, but it is too early to know whether we will be successful in achieving the deadline."

However, consent was still needed from the local education authority and the funding body for academies to extend the age range of the school to reception year.

"We are meeting regularly with these authorities but the outcome will not be known for a while," Mrs Nyman reported.

The two-form entry primary section is to be built on land alongside existing school buildings.

Its design allows for 14 classrooms, informal meeting and study areas, a PE hall and other facilities on two floors, plus provision for outdoor study and play.

A public meeting to report on progress is scheduled for November. Meanwhile, prospective parents are being invited to register their interest via the school website.