Wimbledon Park Primary School has this week been given the green light to provide 30 extra reception year places from September 2011.
The Office of the Schools Adjudicator announced its decision to approve the new places following Merton Council’s application to set up an Admissions Priority Area (APA) which provides greater priority for the extra places only to the west and south of the school.
The decision brings Wimbledon Park Primary School into line with the seven other primary schools in Merton which will also be offering additional places to meet growing demand.
Head teacher of Wimbledon Primary School Paul Lufkin said: “This decision will mean that we will be able to offer an education to some of the children who may otherwise not have found a school within reasonable distance from their homes. We look forward to welcoming those children into our school next academic year.”
Merton Council cabinet member for education Councillor Peter Walker said: “We are very pleased with the adjudicator’s decision. This increase in places will now mean that the school can accommodate children from the areas in this part of Wimbledon Park around the school where there is a pressing need.
“This underlines our policy of expanding good local schools which have established good leadership and provides best value for money. It is a clear demonstration that we are planning effectively to meet the significant increase in demand for reception places which the borough now faces.”
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Notes to editors
The London Borough of Merton has seen a 30% increase in birth rate over the past six years. This has led to an unprecedented rise in demand for primary school places. In the past three years, nine schools in the borough have each provided an extra reception class.
The following schools are also offering extra places in September 2011:
All Saints CE; Gorringe Park; Liberty; Morden; St Mary’s RC; Singlegate; William Morris.
Further details including the specific Admissions Priority Area for Wimbledon Park can be accessed on the council’s website http://www.merton.gov.uk/learning/schools/changingschool/admissions/increased_demand_for_reception_places.htm