St Mary's CofE Primary School in east London will close at the end of the school year due to decreasing pupil enrollment. Established in 1563, the school has seen a decline from about 70 students at the start of the year to just 21 remaining across all year groups. Headteacher Breda McKelvey noted the inevitability of closure due to budget constraints. Staff members have expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the school's role in the community and the impact on local families and businesses. Textbooks and resources are being redistributed to nearby schools.
Headteacher Breda McKelvey stated, "We started the year on about 70 pupils - deep down I knew I couldn't manage another year with the budgets and paying the wages - so for me it was inevitable."
Gloria Rose, a staff member for 24 years, shared, "We like to put the children first with love and community," reflecting on the school's dedication to its students.
Jay Kennedy, the receptionist with over 20 years at the school, expressed her sorrow saying, "I'm absolutely devastated, I understand the reasons why it's closing but it's just awful. It's such a small village school, it's heartbreaking."
St Mary's CofE Primary School, established in 1563, faces closure due to declining enrollment, exemplified by the drastic drop from nearly 70 students to just 21.
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