Camden to consult on future options for four schools
On 20 October 2026, Camden Council's Cabinet members will decide whether to launch public consultations on the future of St Alban’s Church of England Primary School, St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, and La Sainte Union Catholic Secondary School.
Parents, carers, staff and local communities will be invited to have their say on the future of these four Camden schools that are facing significant challenges due to falling pupil numbers and increasing financial pressures.
This proposal comes as schools across London continue to experience a decline in pupil numbers driven by falling birth rates, rising housing costs and families moving out of the capital. As school funding is linked to pupil numbers, empty places can put significant pressure on budgets.
While Camden Council and school leaders have taken steps to respond to these changes, high numbers of unfilled places and underused classrooms continue to affect the long-term sustainability of these schools. The consultations are intended to explore future options, giving parents, carers, staff, pupils and local residents the chance to help shape the schools’ future before any decisions are made.
Camden is a fantastic place to learn, and we are proud of our family of schools and staff, and the education they provide for local children.
Beginning consultation on the future of individual schools is difficult, but we must respond to the challenges facing schools across London and take responsible steps to protect high-quality education both now and in the future.
We want to work closely with parents, carers, staff, pupils and local communities to understand their views and ideas before any decisions are made. These consultations will be an opportunity for everyone affected to help shape the future of these schools and make sure every Camden child can learn, make friends and succeed in a thriving school environment.
Over recent years, Camden has worked closely with schools and Camden Learning to respond to falling pupil numbers. Through its Strong and Sustainable Schools Programme, the Council has provided targeted support and training and, where appropriate, reduced admission numbers to help schools manage financial pressures. As these pressures continue, it is now time to consider further changes to help ensure Camden schools provide high-quality, sustainable education for the future.
If agreed, consultations are expected to begin on Monday 2 November and run for six weeks. Parents, carers, staff, pupils and local residents will receive information about the proposals, what they could mean for their children and how they can take part. There will be a range of consultation activities, including online information, surveys and engagement events.
Particular attention will be given to supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as well as families who may face barriers to taking part in the consultation process.
For full details please visit: camden.gov.uk/SchoolProposals