Plans for Maidstone’s second academy have been delayed to allow time to secure funding for new buildings.

The proposed St Augustine Academy, which was due to open on January 1 in the former Astor of Hever School buildings, will now go ahead on September 1, 2011.

The postponement comes after the government announced cutbacks in its Building Schools for the Future scheme.

Academy sponsor Woodard Schools, with KCC, have requested the change to keep disruption for staff and pupils to a minimum.

Peter Rawlinson, academies development director for Woodard Schools, said: "Funding for the new academy building from the Department for Education still needs to be confirmed. Although we were keen to open on the planned date of the January 1, 2011, we now believe that it is in the best interests of pupils, staff and parents for us to delay opening until the new academic year.

"This date change has many benefits. It will allow us to continue to liaise with the Department for Education and secure the funding needed for the new academy buildings.

"In addition it allows us to refurbish parts of the predecessor school over the summer months."

Rosalind Turner, managing director for Children, Families and Education at KCC, said: "We know that there has ... speculation regarding the building programme and the opening of academies across the UK.

"Woodard Schools and Kent County Council remain enthusiastic and look forward to opening the St Augustine Academy on September 1."