A primary school in East London will shut its doors for good next year after local authority leaders voted to close it, citing unsustainable finances and rapidly declining pupil numbers.
Council votes for closure after consultation
Newham Council's cabinet confirmed the closure of Calverton Primary School in Custom House on Tuesday 16th December. The decisive factor was a severe financial shortfall, with the school running a £1.1 million budget deficit. Councillor Sarah Ruiz, the cabinet member responsible for education, expressed deep personal regret over the decision, noting her own daughter had attended the school.
"It gives me absolutely no pleasure whatsoever," Cllr Ruiz stated. "This is actually really close to my heart. I'm really sorry that it has come to this." She praised the school staff for working tirelessly to find alternatives, but concluded that no viable option remained.
Falling rolls create borough-wide challenge
The closure highlights a broader trend affecting schools across the borough. The amount of funding a school receives is directly tied to its number of pupils. A council report noted that several Newham schools are already having to reorganise classes and reduce staff to cope with shrinking rolls.
However, Calverton Primary was deemed to be in a uniquely critical position. Council officials stated that its pupil numbers had fallen more sharply and quickly than other local schools, making its financial position untenable. With numbers projected to drop further, the £1.1 million deficit was impossible to bridge.
Parental outcry and impact on vulnerable pupils
The decision follows a consultation process where strong opposition was voiced. Around 150 people objected to the plans, describing the potential closure as "deeply unfair," "devastating for families," and "utterly catastrophic."
One single mother of two highlighted the school's crucial role, saying its proximity provided essential stability and support. Significant concerns were also raised about the impact on children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Calverton houses a dedicated resource provision called the Treehouse, which supports pupils with more severe learning difficulties. One parent warned: "All the confidence and trust that has built up over the years, it will be snatched away from them."
In response, the council has pledged to conduct early reviews of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for SEND pupils to identify suitable alternative schools. Council officers confirmed the school will officially close on 31st August 2026.
The authority says it will aim to place all affected children at their parents' preferred new school and keep siblings together wherever possible. If a preferred school has no space, children will be offered a place at the closest suitable school with availability.
