Finding the Balance: The London education system’s responses to falling pupil rolls

London is facing a sustained decline in pupil numbers, creating challenges for school place planning and increasing financial pressures on schools. The “Finding the Balance” report draws together evidence and experiences from across London, examining local responses to falling rolls, alternatives to closure, and lessons from recent school organisation changes. This includes development of local strategies and the different stages of the school closure process.

Each chapter in the report contains ‘key considerations’ for London boroughs, schools and other stakeholders, and many case studies.

The report highlights the need for stronger collaboration across the education system and makes recommendations to government to support effective local planning and minimise disruption for children and families.

Finding the balance – falling pupil rolls report (Sept 2026)

At the School Places and Planning update meeting on the 14th October, this will be a point of discussion and an opportunity for questions. Diary invites for this meeting will be coming out shortly. All Headteachers and Trust leads will be invited and welcome to attend.