Four primary schools to close as pupil numbers collapse

Following months of public consultations, the Hackney cabinet approved the closure of four primary schools: St Dominic's, St Mary's, Oldhill, and Sir Thomas Abney. Deputy Mayor Cllr Anntoinette Bramble stated the decision aimed to preserve educational quality due to a significant drop in pupil enrolment. Data revealed hundreds of unfilled reception places, indicating an ongoing crisis in school funding tied to student numbers. Previous closures last year also reflected these challenges, highlighting the financial strain and risks to both education and extracurricular activities caused by insufficient student enrolment.

Cllr Bramble emphasized that the school closures were a difficult but necessary decision, crucial to maintaining educational quality amidst declining pupil numbers.

The government’s funding formula, which allocates funds based on pupil numbers, significantly impacted the decision to close under-enrolled schools in Hackney.

Read at www.hackneygazette.co.uk