A consultation to convert a Tolworth primary school previously rated “inadequate” by Ofsted inspectors into an academy sponsored by a New Malden school federation is now under way.

Knollmead Primary School could be partnered with Coombe Federation which includes Coombe Boys’ and Coombe Girls’ to help get its performance up.

During the school’s July 2013 inspection it was put in a category of concern, with the report detailing several “serious weaknesses” including poor pupil progress and an inconsistent quality of teaching.

The plans are part of a Government initiative that encourages failing schools to team up with “outstanding” or “good” schools.

Knollmead has already improved on its performance since new headteacher Emma Kelty joined the school last September.

Figures released by the Department for Education in December showed that the percentage of children achieving the required level four in primary education had risen from 60 per cent to 73 per cent.

At the time Ms Kelty told the Surrey Comet: “I know that we will rise to be outstanding within the year due to the wonderful and unfaltering dedication of the staff here at Knollmead.”

Coombe Federation headteacher Deborah Walls said: “This is a particularly exciting development for the Coombe Federation and we are really looking forward to working in partnership with Knollmead and sharing their ideas, initiatives and expertise in ways which will be beneficial to all.”

People can have their say on the potential partnership through the consultation available on the school’s website by January, 31.

Councillor David Cunningham, lead opposition member for schools and continuing education, said: “As far as I am concerned it would make sense. I would support it.”