A primary school in Newham, East London, will close its doors on August 31, 2026, due to declining pupil numbers and a substantial budget deficit. The decision, made by Newham Council on October 16, affects Calverton Primary School in Custom House, which has struggled to maintain enrollment levels.
The council cited a budget deficit of £1.1 million as a primary factor in the closure, stating that the funding for schools is directly tied to their pupil counts. Sarah Ruiz, the cabinet member responsible for education, expressed her regret over the decision, noting that Calverton was a school she held dear, as her daughter once attended there. Ruiz remarked, “I’m really sorry that it has come to this,” while the council’s cabinet voted in favor of the closure after consulting with parents and staff.
Calverton Primary School has experienced a more rapid decline in pupil numbers compared to other schools in the borough, prompting the council to reorganize classes and reduce staff across various institutions. This situation has led to heightened concerns among parents, particularly regarding the impact on children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
In a consultation earlier this year, approximately 150 parents voiced strong opposition to the proposed closure, describing it as “deeply unfair” and “devastating for families.” One parent highlighted the essential role the school plays in their daily lives, especially as a single mother. The parent stated, “Calverton provides not only education but also stability and support for families like mine.”
Concerns have also been raised about the potential negative effects on children with SEND. Calverton Primary is home to the Treehouse, a dedicated resource provision that supports pupils with severe learning difficulties. A concerned parent stated, “The effect the closure will have on not only the SEN but all the pupils of Calverton will be utterly catastrophic.”
Despite these concerns, council officials assert that there are no viable alternatives to the closure. Ruiz emphasized that the decision was made after careful consideration and with no pleasure, stating, “It is a school that my daughter went to from nursery to juniors.”
As plans move forward, the council aims to ensure that, wherever possible, students are placed in their parents’ preferred new schools. If such placements cannot be fulfilled, students will be allocated to the nearest school with available spaces. Parents of children with SEND will have early reviews of their education health and care plans to identify suitable schools, with assurances that their children’s needs will continue to be met.
Ruiz acknowledged the dedication of the school staff, saying, “Your dedication and support to the pupils and parents has been exemplary.” The council remains committed to providing support during this transition period as the community faces the challenges ahead.
