Following the formal consultation held between 19 September and 10 October 2025, we are writing to inform you of the outcome regarding the proposed closure of the Sixth Form at South Wirral High School.
The consultation invited feedback from a wide range of stakeholders including parents, carers, students, staff, trade unions, the Local Authority, and the wider community. We are grateful to everyone who took the time to respond and share their views.
After careful consideration of the feedback received, the Governing Body and Trustees have agreed to submit an application to the Department for Education (DfE) to seek approval for the phased closure of the Sixth Form, with no new admissions to Year 12 from September 2026. This decision has not been taken lightly and reflects both the financial and educational challenges that the consultation reviewed.
Summary of Consultation Findings:
Low student numbers: Only 7 students entered Year 12 at the start of September 2025, representing just 8% of the Sixth Form’s capacity.
Financial sustainability: The Sixth Form requires an annual subsidy, which impacts the wider school budget and provision for students in Years 7–11.
Educational outcomes: Subject breadth is limited due to small cohort sizes.
Local alternatives: A wide range of academic sixth form colleges and grammar schools and vocational providers are available which offer broader curriculum choices.
Stakeholder views: While many respondents expressed concerns about reduced choice and continuity, others acknowledged the financial realities and supported reinvestment into Key Stages 3 and 4.
Next Steps
Subject to Secretary of State approval, South Wirral High School will not admit new Year 12 students from September 2026. Current Sixth Form students will continue their studies uninterrupted until completion in 2027. A strengthened careers guidance and transition programme will be implemented to support Year 11 students in identifying and accessing high-quality post-16 options. Parents and carers of Year 11 students will shortly receive further information on this.
We will also be launching an Admissions consultation this half-term, which will be framed as “subject to Secretary of State approval.”
Supporting Students and Families
We understand the concerns raised during the consultation, particularly around continuity, SEN support, and travel. In response, we will:
- Provide individual transition plans for students with SEND.
- Offer enhanced careers guidance, including one-to-one support and college visits.
- Liaise with the Local Authority to ensure transport support is available for eligible students.
- Continue to deliver a high-quality Personal Development curriculum that promotes ambition and prepares students for successful futures.
Frequently Asked Questions
The common themes from the consultation have been summarised below with the school’s response:
Q: What support will be available for students with SEND or additional needs?
A: We will work closely with families and our SEND team to create personalised transition plans. We will also liaise with the Local Authority and post-16 providers to ensure EHCP requirements are met and transitions are well-supported.
Q: Will current Sixth Form students be affected?
A: No. All current Sixth Form students will continue their studies uninterrupted until completion in 2027.
Q: How will Year 11 students be supported in finding post-16 options?
A: We will provide enhanced careers guidance, including one-to-one support, college visits, and a strengthened transition programme.
Q: What about travel and accessibility to other providers?
A: We will provide clear travel information and work with the Local Authority to support eligible students with transport. We will also signpost bursary schemes and travel assistance options.
Q: Is this decision a sign that the school is lowering its ambitions?
A: Absolutely not. Our commitment to high expectations and excellent outcomes. This remains unchanged. We will reinvest resources into Key Stages 3 and 4 to further strengthen our provision.
Q: Has the school tried to improve Sixth Form recruitment?
A: Yes. Over several years, we have invested in marketing, rebranding, open events, and outreach. Despite these efforts, demand has remained low due to the accessibility of wider curriculum offers and bespoke sixth form centres
Q: Was the consultation process fair and inclusive?
A: Yes. The consultation met statutory requirements and was widely shared with stakeholders, including publication in the Wirral Globe and on our website.
Q: Will this have any effect on the school’s success ?
A: No. Many high-performing schools nationally and locally are 11–16 provisions. Our focus remains on educational excellence, and we will continue to support students in making successful transitions to post-16 education.
We remain committed to supporting all students and families through this transition. Our focus continues to be on delivering an excellent education for all students and ensuring they are well-prepared for their next steps.
If you have any further questions or would like to discuss the consultation outcome, please do not hesitate to contact the school on consultation@southwirral.wirral.sch.uk
Yours sincerely,
South Wirral High School