A consultation has started today (02 October) and will run until 13 November on three proposals for school mergers (affecting six schools) and one proposal for a school closure.
You can find out more and take part here.
North Tyneside’s population is changing. Birth rates have fallen for six years in a row, and there are now around 300 fewer children born each year - the equivalent to 10 fewer classes annually.
There are now too many schools for the number of children in North Tyneside, and many schools are operating significantly under capacity in buildings which are too big.
The latest birth rates data for 2024/2025 shows a fall for the sixth consecutive year. This means the extra places which are a concern now in our schools will not be filled in the near future.
National and local projections predict the birth rate will continue to fall.
This low birth rate is putting financial pressure on schools, as they get funding based on the number of pupils they have. Many schools in North Tyneside are finding themselves in deficit or predicting a deficit, which is where they spend more than the funding they receive.
North Tyneside Council needs to take action to maintain an education system in North Tyneside which is sustainable for pupils now and in the future, and which provides the best quality of education for all pupils.
Your input is valuable and will help shape the future of education in your community.