Consultation over plans to cut reception class places at Silsoe school

Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) is proposing to cut Reception class places at Silsoe CofE VC Lower School from 60 to 30 from September 2028 to reflect “lower demand and projected pupil numbers”.

Meanwhile, it would remove catchment areas for Houghton Regis Primary School, Thornhill Primary School and Tithe Farm Primary School due to significant growth in the Houghton Regis area. Instead, where applications exceed available places, priority would be given to children living closest to the school, measured in a straight line.

A Central Bedfordshire statement explained: “We believe the changes would make the admissions process fairer, clearer and easier for families to understand.

“The proposed changes would not affect children already attending the schools. However, families applying for a reception place from September 2028 at any of the schools included in the consultation could be affected if applications exceed the number of places available.”

People can take part by completing the online questionnaire at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultations. Final admission arrangements will be determined by February 2027 and published by March 2027.