A parent fears 'steamroller tactics' are being used to force a Belton school to become an academy without consultation.

Moorlands C of E Primary, in Belton, was placed in special measures in October 2012, before former headteacher Denise Jackson stepped down without explanation in March.

It is understood interim head Martin Scott - headteacher of Peterhouse Primary School, Gorleston - has also left the role after letters were sent home to parents outlining an academy conversion.

The letter was signed by Fred Corbett, chairman of the Interim Executive Board (IEB), which was formed to replace the board of governors, and Andy Marsh, director of education at proposed sponsor the Diocese of Norwich.

The letter explains the IEB asked the government for permission to become an academy, this has been approved and the school could become an academy 'as soon as October or November this year'.

Barry Stone, borough councillor for Lothingland, sits on the school's management board, which operates beneath the IEB. He said he was not aware that the letters - dated June 6, 2013 - had been sent to parents.

And he said converting to an academy as soon as October would be 'a bit premature'.

Parent Nik Dean, who lives in Burgh Castle, has started a Facebook campaign called 'Stop the Moorlands Academy'.

He said: 'This is Michael Gove steamroller tactics.'

He claimed there has been no consultation with parents, and fears the proposed changes could be to the detriment of children's education.

The Mercury was told Mr Marsh was in meetings all day, and the new consultant head did not respond to requests for comment.

Mr Corbett could not be reached for comment.

Do you have a child at Moorlands Primary? Email your views to anne.edwards@archant.co.uk