Islington Council has outlined its proposed admission arrangements for council-run (community) primary schools for the 2027/28 academic year. The consultation focuses on adjusting reception place numbers at two local schools in response to changing population trends across the borough.
What’s changing (and why)
Islington Council published a consultation proposing a reduction in reception places at Duncombe and Laycock Primary Schools for the 2027/28 intake. The council says the change is driven by the latest data showing fewer children starting school in Islington — a trend the council expects to continue — and notes similar patterns across other inner-London boroughs. No other changes to admissions for council-run (community) schools were included in the proposals.
Which schools are affected
Only two council-run primary schools are named in the proposal: Duncombe Primary School and Laycock Primary School. Families applying to these schools — or to other local schools — should check the council’s full consultation document for the exact numbers and any detail on how the reduction would be phased.
Consultation timeline and how to respond
The consultation opened on 23 October 2025 and closed on 5 December 2025. While the consultation window is now closed, the consultation page and the accompanying PDF set out the council’s full proposals and contact details for further enquiries (admissions@islington.gov.uk). If you missed the formal consultation, keep an eye on Islington Council publications for the council’s decision and any final admission arrangements.
What this means for families and the local area
A reduction in reception places at two schools could affect where some local children receive their first school place, especially in neighbourhoods close to Duncombe and Laycock. Parents and carers planning ahead for 2027/28 should:
- Review the final admission arrangements once published by Islington Council.
- Consider alternative nearby schools and catchment implications.
- Attend open days and school viewings (when scheduled) to understand options and admission criteria.
How Jimac Cars can help
Planning school visits, open days or moving younger children between home and appointment locations can feel stressful — especially during an admissions cycle with changing place numbers. Jimac Cars is a trusted local transport partner and can support families and school staff with:
- Reliable private transfers for school open days and viewings, and safe school-run services tailored to your child’s routine.
- Flexible pick-up and drop-off for admissions interviews, assessments or meetings.
-comfortable, vetted drivers who know the local area and pick the smoothest routes for time-sensitive appointments.
Find more details here:
If you’d like help arranging transport for school visits or to discuss regular school-run options, get in touch with Jimac Cars – we’re part of the community and ready to help make school-related journeys easier and stress-free.