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Consultation on Proposed Reduction to Published Admission Number (PAN) from 2027/28

We would like to inform you that Kimpton Primary School is currently in consultation regarding a proposed reduction to its Published Admission Number (PAN) starting from the academic year 2027/28. The consultation period went live on Monday 27th October and will close on 7th December.

The County Council is responsible for setting a published admission number (PAN) for all community and voluntary-controlled schools and must consult on any proposals to reduce PANs. After a period of demographic growth, the demand for primary places across the county has fallen and, in some areas, fewer school places are needed. This is in line with a decrease in primary demand across most other local authorities. Changes in demand are not evenly distributed and some areas and schools are impacted more than others. As part of the PAN setting process for academic year 2027/28, the County Council has engaged with headteachers and governing bodies at a number of schools, including Kimpton Primary School, to discuss and agree a proposed PAN reduction.

A reduction of the PAN at Kimpton Primary School from 30 to 15 places from 2027/28 is proposed following a drop in the number of applications and allocations for September 2025. The pupil forecast indicates lower demand for Reception places across Kimpton, Hitchin for 2027/28 and beyond. A reduction in PAN would create a better match of places to expected demand, protecting the financial viability of the school moving forward. The Governing Body and Headteacher are both in agreement with the proposal which will assist the school both organisationally and financially. Please visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/admissions2027 for more information about the consultation and to respond online.

Kind regards,

Kim Swash Headteacher