Plans to combine Horndale County Infant and Nursery School and St. Francis Church of England Aided Junior School in Newton Aycliffe have been approved as part of plans to sustain their futures.
Pupil numbers at Horndale have continually declined in recent years, resulting in funding challenges. The council confirmed the buildings will be considered for alternative education opportunities in line with the needs of children and young people’s services.
Both schools are located less than 20 metres apart from each other, with a shared access road and car park. A newly-named Church of England primary school for children aged three to 11 will be created from September 2025.
Eddy Adam, county councillor for Aycliffe West, issued a joint statement with councillor Jim Atkinson calling for clarity on the future of the soon-to-be disused buildings.
Cllr Adam said: “While cllr Atkinson and I view this as a positive step and agree with the recommendations proposed to amalgamate both schools, we believe it’s incumbent on us to ask for clarification.
“Can the portfolio holder provide further details on the alternative educational opportunity and a likely timescale of implementation to provide confidence to residents that the empty building won’t be open to vandalism?”
Durham County Council said the merger will relieve financial pressure and allow both schools to grow their partnership and create even more opportunities for pupils.
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Councillor Ted Henderson, cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “It’s anticipated that St Francis will continue to use both school buildings from September 2025 until August 2026 to support the transition of pupils into the new school.
“The most likely future use is to support children with additional educational needs within the locality, which will benefit all schools and the wider community in Aycliffe. The buildings are in good condition and there is significant demand for additional Special educational needs and disability (SEND) provision, so we are looking to have that in constant use.”
Plans to combine the schools were widely supported by staff, governors and parents.