The Designation of Rural Primary Schools (England) Order 2013

This Order designates those primary schools in England which are rural primary schools for the purpose of section 15 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006.

This Order revokes the Designation of Rural Primary Schools (England) Order 2012. Section 15 of the Education and Inspections Act 2006 requires that when formulating proposals for the closure of a rural primary school, those proposing the closure must have regard to specific factors. These factors include the likely effect of the discontinuance on the local community and any alternatives to the discontinuance of the school. The decision makers must also consult parents and the district and parish councils.

This order designates rural primary schools by reference to a list of such schools published on the Department for Education’s website: http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/leadership/schoolorganisation/a00192440/the-designation-of-rural-primary-schools-2013

When considering proposals to close primary schools, decision makers should refer to this list. A copy can also be obtained by writing to the Department at the following address:

School Organisation Policy Team, Department for Education, 5^th Floor, 2 St Paul’s Place, 125 Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 2FJ.