Statutory consultation on proposals to change the Published Admission Number at Baildon Glen Primary School and Knowleswood Primary School for the 2027/28 academic year
Background
The latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) goes up to the end of 2024 and shows that the number of live births in the UK has fallen in seven of the previous nine years. There was a slight increase in live births from 2023 to 2024 but the
2023 figure was the lowest since 1977.
Birth rates in the Bradford district are higher than the national average but have also seen a significant decline. The number of live births recorded in the district in 2024 was over 1000 lower than in 2014. This reduction in the birth rate has led to a
significant reduction in the required number of Reception places.
For the purposes of primary school place planning, Bradford Council splits the district into 30 planning areas. From 2021 through to 2026, more than 850 Reception places have been or will be removed through the reduction of the Published Admission Number
(PAN) at 35 schools across 24 planning areas.
Schools receive funding based on the number of children on roll. Having vacancies in a class means a school is missing out on revenue. Having too many vacancies in a class can lead to a school facing budgetary difficulties.
Bradford Council forecasts suggest further PAN reductions are required to ensure all schools can continue to operate effectively and offer the highest standard of education.
Specific Proposals
In line with the requirements of the School Admissions Code 2021, Exceed Academies Trust is holding a public consultation from 6 November 2025 to 17 December 2025 on proposals to:
- Reduce the PAN at Baildon Glen Primary School from 30 to 15
- Reduce the PAN at Knowleswood Primary School from 60 to 30
These are the only proposed amendments to admission arrangements at each school; a copy of the full policy can be found on each school’s website. If adopted, this change would apply to the 2027 Reception class (and each subsequent Reception intake); classes
already at the schools would be unaffected.
The proposed reductions are in response to the current reduced demand for school places. If birth rates rise again in the future, Exceed Academies Trust will work closely with Bradford Council to determine an appropriate course of action.
If you would like to comment on either of these proposals, please complete the online form:
September 2027 Admissions PAN Reduction Consultation – Fill in form