“Heartbreaking” decision to close the “little school at the end of the lane” in Purley after 88 years
By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter
The shock closure of a Purley prep school has been blamed on the impact of coronavirus and dwindling pupil numbers.
Reedham Park school will close its doors for good on Friday after 88 years of being known as ‘the little school at the end of the lane’.
The school’s governors have said that difficult decisions have had to be made in the past few weeks.
A spokeswoman for the school governors said: “It has come as a shock due to the impact of the coronavirus and pupil numbers dropping.
“Difficult decisions have had to be made in the last few weeks and the heartbreaking choice had to be made as the school is unable to continue with the numbers due in September.
“Many families will be saddened by this news for those who are in attendance now, past pupils and parents, staff and others that know of our traditions such as the crowning of our May Queen.”
In the summer of 1932 Reedham Park was founded by Inez Routledge with just 12 pupils.
And every May since then children and teachers vote for one child to be crowned the May Queen and write poems for her.
The private school off Old Lodge Lane had 75 pupils at its last inspection in October 2019, down from 87 the previous year.
As staff get ready to permanently close, for parents it will mean looking for a new school for their children.
“Our focus at the moment is to support our Reedham Park School families in securing new schools as the children follow new paths in their education,” added the school spokeswoman.
“We are grateful to all our staff for all their dedication and loyalty over the years and the governing board.
“Many memories will be cherished of school days which were begun in 1932 by the truly remarkable founder Miss Routledge, known as Routie.
“Thank you to all who have been associated with our wonderful little school and we wish everyone the very best in the future.”
Pictured top: Children at Reedham Park School