Brighton & Hove City Council has proposed the closure of St Bartholomew’s because it has a low number of pupils attending the school and is operating with a deficit budget. There is no plan to balance the school’s budget in the next few years.
In the May 2023 school census, St Bartholomew’s C E Primary School had the following number of pupils attending. The school has the capacity to admit 210 pupils.
| School | Year reception | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | Year 6 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St Bartholomew’s C of E Primary School | 16 | 23 | 26 | 18 | 15 | 19 | 22 | 139 |
This was the second-lowest total number of pupils of any of Brighton & Hove's primary schools.
St Bartholomew's C of E Primary School is currently operating with a deficit budget. The school’s budget forecast for 2023 to 2024 is £205,000. The school is currently unable to forecast reaching a balanced budget position in the longer term.
We know that a potential closure at these schools will be a difficult and upsetting process for many, particularly the children, staff and community. We'll provide support for the education choices and well-being of all children and staff.
There are 8 schools within 1 mile of the school. If the proposal to close the school is carried out it's estimated that there will remain at least 10 surplus places in each year group in schools near the school.
Brighton & Hove City Council considers it will be possible to reallocate pupils to alternative school places within a reasonable distance of St Bartholomew’s should the school close.
It's recognised that parents/carers may choose to send their child to another Church of England school in the city. There are sufficient school places within 2 miles for all pupils at St Bartholomew’s if they wish to attend another Church school if places at catholic schools are included. Spaces only in Church of England schools would currently require spaces to be offered in schools over 3 kilometres away.
Further information about moving schools.
Respondents are asked to submit an online response about the closure of either or both of these schools on the consultation page.