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Primary school could close
One of Bristol’s smallest primary schools looks likely to close and merge with a neighbouring school.
Hotwells Primary School headteacher Kee Jones shared the news with the school’s community with “a very heavy heart”, saying that it was “a significant and emotional moment for all of us”.
The site of Hotwells Primary School is set to remain open but become the location where the youngest children from the expanded Cathedral Primary School will be educated.
is needed now More than ever
Key Stage 1 pupils will be based at the current Hotwells site on Albermarle Row and KS2 pupils at Cathedral Primary School off Anchor Road.
The amalgamation would create a 60-place and two-form entry primary school from September 2026.
The current site of Hotwells Primary School is likely to become an extension of Cathedral Primary School – photo: Martin Booth
It is not the first time that Cathedral Primary School has expanded into other local schools, with the former St George Primary School at the foot of Brandon Hill used by Cathedral Primary School after that school also closed due to falling pupil numbers.
Cathedral Schools Trust CEO, Neil Blundell, said: “We have a responsibility to support the sector by helping to reduce the number of available places, ensuring schools across the city remain full and financially viable.
“This opportunity to work alongside the local authority will build on existing strengths and help ensure continuity of education and provision within the area.”
Hotwells Primary School headteacher Kee Jones shared the news with the school’s community with “a very heavy heart”, saying that it was “a significant and emotional moment for all of us” – photo: Lois Booth
In a letter sent to parents on Tuesday morning, Jones said: “I am writing to share some difficult news with you about the future of our lovely little school.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you Hotwells Primary School will shortly begin a consultation regarding a proposal to close in its current form…
“This is a significant and emotional moment for all of us. Hotwells has a proud history of serving this community, and I know how deeply many of you care about this school.
“Please rest assured that this proposal has not been made lightly and this plan does mean that there will continue to be a school that serves the Hotwells/Harbourside community.
“It comes after careful and difficult consideration by Cathedral Schools Trust and their board of trustees, taking into account the ongoing challenges we face with falling pupil numbers and the financial implications for the school.”
Jones added: “The aim has always been to act in the best interests of our children’s education and wellbeing, and this proposal is part of our commitment to ensuring their future is secure, even in the face of these difficult circumstances.
“Serving the Hotwells community has been a true privilege. I am incredibly proud of our school, our dedicated staff, and most of all, our wonderful children.
“My priority in the coming weeks, months and year, along with Mr Edwards and our amazing staff team, is to support you and your families as we work through this process together.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support, trust, and understanding as we begin this new chapter together.
“We know that change can bring uncertainty, but please be assured that our dedication to your child’s learning, wellbeing and happiness remains as strong as ever.”
A public consultation event is taking place at Hotwells Primary School on June 12 at 2pm.
Hotwells Primary School is currently rated ‘good’ by Ofsted – photo: Hotwells Primary School
Main photo: Martin Booth
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