Withington C of E Primary School has been a cherished resource at the heart of our community for many years; however, we face an uncertain and difficult future. We have very low pupil numbers and, following significant, but unsuccessful, efforts to recruit key staff into the positions of Head Teacher, Class Teacher and SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator), the school has had to temporarily close. 

Providing a broad, balanced education and social development with a small pupil peer group is very challenging, and ultimately unsustainable. Therefore, our pupils have transferred onto a dual roll with another local Primary School where they are supported in settings that provide good education, personal development, and opportunities that are not currently available at Withington. 

The Governing Body has had to consider the long term viability of the school. We took a carefully considered decision to issue a statutory notice proposing that the school would formally close on 31^st August 2026. This decision took into account the fact that there are no potential new pupils planned for September 2026, and there are surplus places available in other local schools.

The proposal to close has now moved to the Public Notice stage, and the full proposal is found in the links below, along with the consultation report and all supporting documents.  Please send your comments or objections by 5pm on 21st May 2026 to Withingtonproposal@gloucestershire.gov.uk.

The Governing Body and Gloucestershire County Council are committed to ensuring that all children are supported in settings that provide the best possible education and social development opportunities to meet their individual needs.

If you have queries, please contact the school office at admin@withington.gloucs.sch.uk

Withington Primary School Governing Body.

Timeline for the next steps of the process.

Statutory Notice to Close

Withington Information and Response Form 2025Withington Consultation Report