Greenwich parents in Plumstead were surprised to learn about the proposed closure of Gallions Mount Primary School by the council. The council’s decision to start a consultation on closing the school at the end of the current academic year was based on a projected £1.2 million deficit by April 2026 due to a decrease in pupil numbers from 295 to 169.
Barry Scutts, a parent with a child at Gallions, expressed his disappointment at the potential closure. He highlighted the strong community feel of the school and its significance to him as a former student of the school’s first year group in 1977. Barry mentioned that if the school were to close, it would mark the end of an era for him and his son.
The sudden news of the proposed closure came as a shock to many parents, including Rachel Ding and Kirstin Rothe, who have children at Gallions. Rachel’s son is upset about the prospect of leaving the school, while Kirstin expressed her surprise at the lack of communication from the school about its financial challenges.
Concerns have been raised about the lack of support and information provided by the council to parents regarding the closure. Many parents are worried about finding alternative schools for their children and the logistics of transportation to new schools. Despite reassurances from the council about accommodating all pupils in other schools, parents like Kirstin feel blindsided by the decision.
In response to the closure proposal, Kirstin has started a petition to stop the closure, gathering over 500 signatures. While she acknowledges the challenges ahead, she remains hopeful that the school can be saved.
Greenwich council has urged parents to share their concerns and suggestions through the online consultation process. The spokesperson emphasized that the decision was made in the best interest of the children, despite the difficult circumstances.
As the community awaits the final decision on the school’s future in March next year, the uncertainty and emotional toll on parents, students, and staff at Gallions Mount Primary School remains palpable. The outcome of the consultation will determine the fate of the school and its impact on the Plumstead community.
