Proposal to close North Stainley CE Primary School

After extensive discussion and deliberation, Leeds Diocesan Learning Trust Directors have regretfully come to the decision to propose to the Secretary of State for Education, the closure of North Stainley CE School at the end of the Summer term 2027.

Parents/carers and other stakeholders were made aware of this proposal on 15th July 2026. 

The primary reason for this proposal is the low pupil numbers which means the Trust cannot guarantee the high-quality education and social development opportunities the children deserve. Furthermore, given the county-wide decline in primary-aged children, there are severe concerns regarding the school’s long-term financial viability, despite the implementation of a unique leadership model.

The Secretary of State for Education made a substantive decision for closure of the school on 14th July 2026. There will be a ‘listening period’ of four weeks commencing 2nd September 2026 during which time parents, carers and other stakeholders will have the opportunity to ask and submit questions about the closure and how the process will operate for all parties. The Secretary of State considers the outcome of the listening period, at which point a final decision would be made on whether the funding agreement should be terminated and the school close.

The Trust is deeply saddened that it has to make this decision.

We will update this page as this matter progresses.