Parents threaten legal action over primary school closures

A group of parents are planning legal action against a decision by Islington Council to close two primary schools due to reduced pupil demand in the area.

The schools, Highbury Quadrant and St Jude & St Paul’s, are set to close from 31 August 2025, with the council “guaranteeing” all affected pupils a place at an alternative ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ Islington school.

However, according to the Islington Tribune, parents are planning a Judicial Review against the council’s decision.

In January last year, London Councils warned schools in London are experiencing a continued drop in demand for places, causing “major implications” for the future of schools across the capital.

The report cited London’s birth rate as the main reason for the decrease in demand for school places, and called on the Department for Education to work with local authorities and schools to promote more inclusion in schools, and ensure that schools receive “consistent and appropriate” levels of funding to enable more children with SEND to access mainstream school places.

Confirming the planned school closure on 1 May, Islington Council said Highbury Quadrant Primary School has been “acutely impacted” by reduced pupil demand in the area.

The school currently has capacity for 360 pupils in Reception to Year 6, but as at the January 2025 School Census there were only 144 pupils on roll, meaning 60% of places aren’t filled.

Similarly, St Jude and St Paul’s C of E Primary School currently has capacity for 210 pupils, but as of January 2025 there were only 114 pupils on roll - a vacancy rate of 46%.

Speaking to the Tribune, Highbury Quadrant parent Ms Perez said: “This is not democratic whatsoever.

“The council made up their mind from the beginning, no matter what we did.

“[…] We are confident about going through with a judicial review. There are lawyers interested in representing us – the problem now is funding the process.”

Islington Council, Highbury Quadrant Primary School and St Jude and St Paul’s C of E Primary School have been approached for comment.

Lottie Winson