A new report issued on Monday by the London Councils group has raised concerns about potential school closures in London due to a decline in pupil numbers.
Approximately 8,000 fewer children are expected to need school places over the next four years, resulting in significant budget shortfalls for schools across the capital.
The report identifies various factors contributing to this decline, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rising cost of living, the UK’s exit from the European Union, and the scarcity of affordable housing in London.
The report emphasizes that these factors are particularly significant in central London, where families are increasingly choosing to relocate.
A 17% decrease in the birth rate in the city, totalling 23,225 live births between 2012 and 2021, is cited as another major reason for the reduced demand for school places.
The group representing the 32 councils covering Greater London anticipates that the birth rate in London will continue to decrease, potentially leading to more reductions in pupil numbers and, in some cases, school closures.
Schools, funded by the government based on pupil numbers, may face challenging decisions to balance their budgets, including potential measures such as cutting teachers, narrowing the curriculum, or offering fewer extracurricular opportunities.
The report warns of an imminent risk that declining student enrollment and stretched budgets may negatively impact educational standards, affecting the long-term educational attainment of children.
This trend is not unique to London, as falling pupil numbers have already resulted in the closure of several schools across towns and cities in England. Last year, The Guardian reported on an “urban exodus” of young families due to rising housing and childcare costs, creating similar challenges beyond the capital.
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