Hampshire County Council has confirmed the closure of Smannell and Enham Church of England Primary School, Andover, with effect from 27 March 2026, following a statutory consultation process.
The decision was approved by Councillor Roz Chadd, Cabinet Lead Member for Children’s Services, during her Decision Day meeting on Wednesday, 31 December. The move follows a statutory consultation held between 20 November and 18 December, preceded by a four-week non-statutory consultation in October.
Councillor Chadd said: “This decision is not taken lightly and follows a lengthy process of consultation and tireless work – by council officers, the Diocese of Winchester and the Department for Education – to support the school and explore alternative options for its future. I am grateful for their continued efforts and wish to express my disappointment that despite this, the school’s closure is now regrettably the only viable way forward.”
She acknowledged the impact on the local community, stating: “I know that this will be met with great sadness in the local community. I would like to thank all those who have taken part in our consultations and to assure everyone that I have fully reviewed their feedback. It has been essential to consider this alongside the school’s many wider, complex challenges, which unfortunately leave us with no other suitable, long-term solution.”
The closure of Enham Church of England Primary School, Andover, comes after significant decline in pupil numbers, with just five children on roll at the end of the autumn term. The school has capacity for 105 pupils, making it the lowest-attended Hampshire school. Numbers are expected to fall further when the spring term begins.
Following the Enham Church of England Primary School Andover closed announcement, discussions will commence with remaining staff and recognised trade unions regarding employment matters. Each individual will receive tailored support and guidance. The authority’s Admissions team will assist parents requiring help with in-year applications.
