The Cabinet decision was referred to the Office of the School Adjudicator by the Governing Body of St John the Divine. On Monday, 24 June the Office of the School Adjudicator chose to reject the proposal.
Responding to the decision, a Lambeth Council spokesperson said: “We brought forward this proposal after extensive consultation because we wanted to ensure a viable and sustainable school remained in the local area – minimising disruption and retaining Church of England education provision in a way that would protect the quality of education for our children.
“We are disappointed that the Office of the School Adjudicator disagreed with the council’s approach and by their decision, but we respect it and will now fully consider what it may mean for our approach in the future to ensure that it is in line with the OSA’s decision in this case.
“We apologise to the parents, pupils and staff of both schools and the local community for the uncertainty that this decision now creates. We particularly thank the Christ Church school community and leadership for their constructive engagement throughout this process.”
The big drop in pupils in Lambeth continues to have impacts on primary schools in the borough following the number of children starting reception classes falling by more than 1,000 over the last 10 years. Primary schools are funded per pupil under Government arrangements.
Fewer pupils means less money for schools. That means fewer teachers and resources, affecting the quality of education, and puts at risk the financial stability of our schools.
The spokesperson said: “Given the OSA’s decision and the continued falling pupil numbers in the borough, the council will now have to begin consultation on further school closures later in 2025.”
