Deri Primary School in Caerphilly county could close from September 2027 due to falling pupil numbers and ongoing financial pressures. The school currently has 57 pupils, with a full capacity of 80 places.
The proposal follows a request from the school and its governing body. According to a report, the school has faced ongoing financial pressures and has advised that it is no longer able to sustain a balanced budget.
Parents have been written to this week, with the school advising that a consultation may be undertaken in the near future to seek views about closing the school from September 2027.
Financial challenges and declining numbers
Caerphilly County Borough Council said school leaders at Deri Primary have worked closely with council officers over recent years to address the financial challenges it faces. However, declining pupil numbers have continued to present significant challenges.
Surplus places at the school are currently at 29% and are projected to be over 60% by 2031. The council warned it had become apparent that the future of the school is becoming unsustainable.
A report published by the council explained that projected pupil numbers indicate a worsening financial position for the school, with reduced learner numbers leading directly to a significant loss of funding. This creates considerable pressure on the school's budget and its ability to remain financially viable, making it increasingly difficult for the headteacher and governing body to maintain a balanced budget, sustain appropriate staffing structures, and deliver education efficiently.
Governing body request and next steps
As a result, the governing body has requested that the Local Authority consider closure of the school from September 2027.
Councillor Carol Andrews, cabinet member for education, said: "Problems linked to falling pupil numbers are not unique to Deri Primary and we recognise the financial impact this can have on schools. It has become apparent that the future of the school is becoming unsustainable and, as a result, governors have formally requested that the local authority explore the possibility of undertaking a consultation regarding the potential closure of the school."
A report will be considered by the council's education scrutiny committee next week, before the cabinet will be asked to make a final decision to proceed to consultation at its meeting in September.
Chair of governors reassures families
Mrs D Rogers, chair of governors, said: "We understand that this news may cause worry and uncertainty for families. However, it is important to reinforce that a consultation has not yet been agreed and that, at present, this is simply a request for the local authority to consider whether a consultation should take place."
She added: "We are committed to ensuring that the process remains open, transparent and fair and, as always, we will keep the wellbeing of our learners at the heart of all our work and decision-making within the school."
