Public Consultation Launched On Plans To Cut Reception Places At Five West Sussex Schools

West Sussex County Council has launched a public consultation on proposals to reduce the number of Reception places at five primary schools from September 2027.

Under the plans, the annual intake would be cut at:

• Bersted Green Primary School – from 60 to 30 pupils

• Swiss Gardens Primary School, Shoreham-by-Sea – from 60 to 30

• Upper Beeding Primary School – from 45 to 30

• East Preston Infant School – from 90 to 60

• The Meads Primary School, East Grinstead – from 45 to 30

The council says each of the schools approached them to request a review of pupil numbers, with demographic forecasts showing a surplus of places in their local areas.

In its consultation document, the council said reducing spare capacity would help schools operate more sustainably:

“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.”

Residents are also invited to comment on proposed admission arrangements and over-subscription criteria for the 2027–2028 school year.

Anyone wishing to take part can read the full proposals and submit feedback at yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/admissions-2027-2028.

The consultation runs until January 16, 2026.