A primary academy in Orpington has shocked parents by informing them that the school day for Year 6 pupils will be extended.

Harris Primary Academy Orpington wrote to parents to say that classes would not end until 4.30pm so that kids would be better prepared for secondary school.

A spokesman for The Harris Federation told News Shopper the move was to make up for lost time after years of negative Ofsted reports.

The statement read: "Year 6 spent the first four years of their education in a school that was consistently judged by Ofsted to require improvement.

"By the time our academy replaced the school, the current Year 6 had missed out on good standards for the majority of their primary education.

"We have worked extremely hard to make up for lost time, but we want to send our pupils to secondary school in September with all of the essential skills expected of them. The extra time will give pupils the boost they need to thrive."

Harris Academy took over the school in 2016, the year when Ofsted said it required improvement.

A new inspection is expected soon, and the school feels keeping Year 6 students in the classroom until 4.30pm will give them a better chance of being ready for secondary school.

One parent, who wished not to be named, told News Shopper: "It’s a joke, they should be teaching what they need to in the normal school hours."

In the letter to parents, the principal, Lynne Dando, argued that the move will give kids the "best possible opportunity" to reach their potential.

She added: "I am sure you will agree that you are very lucky that we are able to provide Year 6 with an extended day and we look forward to all Year 6 children attending and making the most of this opportunity."

The school sent the letter on Friday and the new school hours came into fruition today, and some parents said on social media that they were not given enough time to prepare.

Are you a parent at the school? Whether you are happy or unhappy with the decision, please get in touch with liam.mcinerney@newsquest.co.uk