Hampshire primary school cuts Reception places as pupil numbers fall

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 13:02 · Archive

St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School in Titchfield Common will reduce its Reception intake from 60 to 41 places.

St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School in Titchfield Common has been approved to cut its Reception intake from 60 to 41 places. The Schools Adjudicator decision, published this month, comes as falling birth rates force schools across Hampshire to reduce pupil numbers.

The school currently has 39 pupils in Reception and had been offering 60 places, creating financial strain. Hampshire County Council said the school was 'currently in a deficit' and that continuing to offer 60 places could result in a £45,911 deficit by 2028/29. With the reduction, the school is now projected to have a £33,501 surplus by that date.

The council explained that schools receive government funding based on pupil numbers rather than available places, yet still must meet operating costs for larger facilities. A spokesperson said: 'Managing surplus places is important to ensure long-term financial sustainability.' The school has also moved to mixed-age classes in response to falling numbers.

How it is being reported

• St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School in Titchfield Common to cut reception places as pupil numbers fallThe move should help the school financiallyThe News, Portsmouth · 19 Oct, 12:35
• Primary school to cut Reception places as pupil numbers fallA Hampshire primary school has been forced to cut pupil numbers.Southern Daily Echo · 19 Oct, 10:36

In this story: St John the Baptist Church of England Primary School · Titchfield Common · Hampshire County Council · Schools Adjudicator · Hampshire

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