It has been officially announced that two primary schools in the Islington borough will shut their doors at the conclusion of the summer term due to a decrease in student enrollment.

Highbury Quadrant School and St Jude & St Paul’s CofE Primary School are deemed no longer sustainable financially, as only around 50% of available pupil spaces are filled, according to the local council.

Teacher Natalie Meaker referred to St Jude and St Paul’s as “the heart of our community,” while parents expressed their anguish over this decision, labeling it “heartbreaking.”

This decision comes shortly after neighboring Hackney borough revealed plans to close four primary schools amidst a persistent decline in birth rates across London.

Councillors made the decision on Thursday, coinciding with a protest where teachers, students, and parents marched to the town hall.

Ms. Meaker shared with the BBC: “I can’t fathom why they would consider shutting down such a small school that plays such a vital role in our community.”

One parent, Rosie Turvey, pleaded with Islington Council to “spare our school.”

“These children truly love our school, and it’s devastating. What options will our kids have?” she lamented.

Another parent, Carine Ogundipe, emphasized, “This is more than a school; it’s a community, it’s family.”

Islington Council stated its main focus is to provide a “high-quality education” for every child.

The council also mentioned that pupils will be offered enrollment at other nearby schools.

Currently, the two schools have about a 50% vacancy rate, reflecting the ongoing decline in student numbers in London.

A report by London Councils highlighted a 20% drop in birth rates from 2012 to 2022.

This trend is believed to be partly influenced by the prohibitive cost of living in London and may lead to additional school closures, according to London Councils.

Becky Hunter, whose child is a student at Highbury Quadrant, expressed concerns about future school availability.

“I am genuinely worried that now and in the future, families may find themselves outside the catchment areas for nearby schools, and they may end up being offered placements in schools… potentially even outside the borough.”

This week, Hackney Council disclosed the closure of St Dominic’s Catholic Primary School, St Mary’s Church of England Primary School, Oldhill Community School, and Sir Thomas Abney Primary School at the end of the academic year.