Four Camden schools face possible closure as the council prepares to decide next week whether to launch public consultations on their future.
Cabinet members will decide on Tuesday, October 20, whether to open consultations on proposals affecting St Alban’s Church of England Primary School in Holborn, St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School in Kentish Town, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Holborn, and La Sainte Union Catholic Secondary School in Highgate Road.
The council says all four schools are struggling with falling pupil numbers and financial pressures, as empty places put budgets under strain.
Camden blames a London-wide slump in pupil numbers, citing falling birth rates, rising housing costs and families moving out of the capital. Since school funding is linked to pupil numbers, unfilled places threaten long-term sustainability.
“High numbers of unfilled places and underused classrooms” are hitting the schools, the council said, despite efforts by headteachers and the authority to respond.
Councillor Marcus Boyland, cabinet member for best start for children and families, said: “Camden is a fantastic place to learn, and we are proud of our family of schools and staff, and the education they provide for local children.”
“Beginning consultation on the future of individual schools is difficult, but we must respond to the challenges facing schools across London and take responsible steps to protect high-quality education both now and in the future.”
“We want to work closely with parents, carers, staff, pupils, and local communities to understand their views and ideas before any decisions are made.”
The consultations would give parents, staff and residents the chance to shape the schools’ future before any final decisions.
London Streets has been covering the Camden schools consultation and Barking and Dagenham’s in-demand schools this week.
