School Places Disappearing Fast

03-05-2010

Due to a rise in the birth rate, the financial climate and closure of some private schools it has become increasingly difficult to find places in UK State schools over the last year.

Many LEAs (local education authorities) are finding it difficult to cope with a recent surge in school applications. Some local authorities in parts of the country have been forced to install mobile classrooms and educate children in Church halls due to the shortage of spaces. In London alone it is predicted that by September 2010 there will be a shortfall of around 3000 school places for primary children.

Good private and international schools have survived the financial crisis. Some have adapted themselves to the needs of their customers by going co-ed, offering bursaries and reducing fees to siblings. Many of these top schools still have places for September but are filling fast.