Two West Sussex schools could shrink as pupil numbers fall in their area.
West Park Primary, in Worthing and Trafalgar Infants, in Horsham, both approached West Sussex County Council asking to reduce this year’s intake by 30 places.
Both were undersubscribed last year, with West Park only offering 101 places to fill 120 spaces, and Trafalgar just 49 out of 90 places.
Council data indicates there will continue to be a surplus of places across their catchment areas.
As schools are funded per pupil, running half-empty classes puts a strain on the school’s overall budgets.
Both schools are currently rated as good by Ofsted.
The county council is proposing to reduce West Park’s published admission numbers (PANs) from 120 children per year to 90 and Trafalgar’s from 90 to 60.
A spokesman said: “Reducing the number of surplus places will help all schools come closer to achieving full classes and therefore reduce their financial risks, ensuring that they have the resources they require to meet the needs of their children.”
The consultation also looks at the proposed admission arrangements across the board for the school year 2026 to 2027.
To read the documents and take part in the consultation, log on to the county council’s website, or email SchoolConsultations@westsussex.gov.uk .
