Agenda item

RESOLVED:

That:

1)    the responses from the consultation based on the proposals set out, along with the Equalities Impact Assessment, be given due consideration and;

2)    the (technical) closure of the Harefield Infant School on 6^th April 2026 and the extension of the age range of the Harefield Junior School, to amalgamate both schools to create an all-through primary school from 7^th April 2026, be approved.

Reasons for decision

The Cabinet Member for Children, Families & Education advised Cabinet on the proposal to amalgamate Harefield Infant School and Harefield Junior School into a single two-form entry maintained primary school for children aged three to eleven.

The Cabinet Member clarified that the legal requirement to “close” a school was a technical term and did not affect land or buildings, as all assets would transfer to the new primary school. It was noted that some residents had misunderstood this during the summer and believed the Infant School site would be redeveloped for housing, which was not the case.

The change was proposed to take effect from 7 April 2026, following discussions with the Department for Education to ensure that the transition would not financially disadvantage the schools. It was explained that the funding arrangements would provide the full lump sum in 2026/27, reduce to 70% in 2027/28 and move to a single primary school allocation from 2028/29.

The amalgamation reflected the Council’s policy triggers, as both schools had falling pupil numbers and were operating below published admission numbers.

The Cabinet Member noted that the two schools already worked closely together, sharing curriculum, staff, assemblies, training, events, newsletters and uniforms, and were effectively operating as one school in all but name.

Concerns raised by governors and parents regarding future funding were acknowledged, but it was confirmed that the change would not affect allocations for special educational needs or pupil premium.

The Cabinet Member stressed that the Council did not proactively seek to amalgamate schools, but falling rolls across London had created financial pressures, and the proposal aimed to ensure long-term sustainability and avoid schools becoming unviable. It was noted that previous amalgamations in the borough, including Grange Park, Lady Bankes and Oak Farm, had been successful. The Cabinet Member also advised Cabinet for full information, that an online petition opposing the merger existed but had not been submitted under the Council’s petition scheme.

The Leader of the Council recognised that changes to school infrastructure were understandably emotive but highlighted the need to secure the sustainability of schools considering declining pupil numbers. The recommendation, in his view, were based on this strategic approach and reflected similar changes elsewhere in the borough.

In duly considering all the information presented, the consultation outcomes and equalities impact assessment, along with the rationale set out, Cabinet therefore decided to proceed with the amalgamation of the two schools.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected

As part of Cabinet’s consideration of this matter, it could have decided to not proceed with the merger proposed.