The bombshell news was dropped on parents of Palmers Green High School pupils yesterday and has been blamed on a financial crisis caused by falling enrolment numbers, reports James Cracknell

Palmers Green High School in Hoppers Road (credit Google)

An independent girls’ school in Palmers Green has been proposed for closure in a move described by a trade union as “deeply upsetting”.

Palmers Green High School sent a letter to parents and guardians yesterday (Monday 19^th) informing them that it is “with deep sadness” that the governing board is “proposing to close the school in August”.

The Dispatch understands that the move, if it goes ahead, will lead to the redundancy of around 50 staff, including 40 teachers, and leave at least 200 pupils needing to find an alternative school for next autumn.

The school has not commented on the number of expected redundancies. In July 2024, teachers walked out on strike against the introduction of new work contracts they claimed would hit their pensions.

Palmers Green High School was founded over 120 years ago and was only last month named ‘Independent 11-16 School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2026’ by The Sunday Times.

In the letter to parents, the chair of governors blamed “sustained and significant decline in pupil numbers over many years” for the closure proposal, adding that “the school does not have the financial capacity to continue to operate for another academic year”.

Sue Hill, a London regional organiser for trade union NASUWT, said: “This news is deeply upsetting for staff at Palmers Green High School, as well as students and their families.

“Our immediate concern is the lack of clear information to staff and their recognised trade unions at this early stage. This is needed to enable a full and proper consultation for staff to understand what these proposals mean for their jobs and their futures.

“Staff are understandably anxious, and students and their families face significant uncertainty and upheaval. Both deserve clarity and timely communication about the future of the school and the site.

“The union is in contact with members to offer support and guidance, and we are seeking urgent engagement with the employer so that staff and students are not left in limbo during what is already a very difficult time.”

The proposal to close the school has been linked by some parents to the involvement of St Albans Education Group (STAEG), which was recently brought in to assist the governing body. The letter to parents mentions that “as many pupils as possible” will be offered schools places at alternative STAEG-run schools around Hertfordshire, including Stormont School in Potters Bar.

Approached for comment, a STAEG spokesperson said: “The decision to propose to close Palmers Green High School was taken by its governing body following careful consideration of the school’s long-term viability. STAEG was not involved in that decision.

“The governing body of Palmers Green High School has proposed the closure of the school at the end of the summer term, following a sustained period of declining pupil numbers and careful consideration of the school’s long-term financial viability.

“No final decision has yet been taken, although the governors have been clear about the seriousness of the challenges the school faces.

“St Albans Education Group did not make this proposal, nor was it involved in the assessment of the school’s viability. Its role is to provide capacity and expertise to support the governing body and leadership team through what is a complex and sensitive process, should the proposed closure proceed.

“The school is communicating directly with parents, pupils and staff and is providing appropriate support during this period.”

The governing body has confirmed that the school will “work in partnership” with STAEG to “help plan for a managed and orderly closure” which “protects pupils’ education and supports families whilst preserving the legacy of the school”.

Melanie Curtis, chair of governors, said: “This is not the future any of us had hoped for. However, as trustees of the school we have a responsibility to act carefully and responsibly in the best interests of the school, its pupils and its staff.

“Our absolute priority throughout this process will be the wellbeing of our community. Subject to consultation with staff, the governors are proposing a planned, orderly and solvent closure. This approach will allow our families the time and support needed to make informed decisions about future schooling for their daughters and will ensure that staff are given time and assistance as they seek new roles for September 2026.

“We are committed to supporting our pupils as they complete what is likely to be their final academic year at PGHS, and to helping each girl find a forward school where she can continue to thrive.”

Last year the Labour government introduced a new VAT charge for private schools, with many warning the move would have a significant financial impact on the sector.

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