Education secretary Michael Gove has approved business plans for eight new free schools.
This means the schools have progressed to the final stage before opening.
The secretary of state made the announcement at a free school conference held over the weekend.
The event brought together government ministers, as well as US experts, teachers, charitable organisations and 400 parents.
Schools that have received approval include Stour Valley Community School in Suffolk and the Discovery New School in West Sussex.
Speaking last week, Mr Gove said: "A good school can transform a child's life and help them achieve things they may never have imagined. In this country, too often it is the poorest children who miss out while richer families can buy their way to good education via private schools or expensive houses.
"Free schools will give all parents the option of a good local school with great teaching, strong discipline and small class sizes."
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