A report published ahead of an upcoming decision recommends consulting on a range of options for Downe Manor and Viking. This reflects the significant fall in the number of children starting school over the past decade and the need to ensure that schools are as educationally and financially sustainable as possible.
No decisions have been made about the future of either school.
Like many London boroughs, Ealing has seen a sustained fall in primary pupil numbers. The number of children joining reception classes at state-funded schools in Ealing has fallen by more than 900 since its peak in 2014/15. In the Greenford, Northolt and Perivale West (GNP West) planning area, reception numbers have fallen from 285 children in 2014/15 to 175 in 2025/26.
The report says that falling pupil numbers are creating financial challenges for schools because government funding is largely based on the number of pupils attending. It also highlights continuing surplus school places in the local area.
If approved, a public consultation would invite residents, parents, staff and governors to share their views on a range of options for the future of Downe Manor and Viking.
The report identifies a preferred option that would form part of the consultation. This would involve closing Viking Primary School and merging with Downe Manor Primary School from September 2027. This option would mean that all children enrolled at Viking Primary School when it closes would be offered a place at Downe Manor. Other options would also be included in any consultation, including retaining the current arrangements and alternative approaches to reducing school capacity in the area.
Councillor Blerina Hashani, Ealing Council's cabinet member for a fairer start who will be making the decision on next steps, said:
"Like many parts of London, the borough has seen a significant fall in the number of children starting primary school in recent years. We need to consider what that means for the long-term sustainability of school places in some areas.
"Our schools are at the heart of their communities and I know people will have strong views about any potential changes. If consultation does take place, I would encourage parents, staff, governors, residents and pupils to take part and help shape the next stage of the conversation."
If a consultation is approved, it would take place during October and November. The council’s cabinet would then consider the responses before deciding whether to publish a statutory proposal for any changes.
You can read the Individual Cabinet Member Decision (ICMD) report here