King's Lynn Catchment consultation

Overview

Eastern Multi-Academy Trust in conjunction with Norfolk County Council are proposing to change the admissions arrangements by altering the catchment area of King’s Lynn Academy, effective from September 2026

Through the recent annual admission rounds, there has been significant issues for children living within the catchment area of Downham Market Academy not being offered places at their local school.  This has been particularly evident for those living in the areas furthest from the Academy. 

Where preference is not met, the Local Authority has a duty to offer a school place and children are offered places at the nearest school with a place available; as a rural locality, alternatives have been some distance from home addresses involving home to school transport in most cases.

With the uncertainty for families, Local Authority Officers have looked at options, working with Academy Trusts in the area to seek alternative admission arrangements and therefore Eastern Multi-Academy Trust proposes to change the catchment area of King’s Lynn Academy to:

• Respond to changes in pupil population and balance enrolment across neighbouring secondary schools, ensuring schools are not over or under-subscribed; optimising facilities and resources which support better learning environments.
• Reduce the distance that pupils need to travel to their local school, supporting reduction in carbon footprint and encouraging community and parental engagement.

This consultation is linked to proposals from Marshland High School, part of West Norfolk Academies Trust and Downham Market Academy, part of Eastern Learning Alliance.

It is proposed that these plans will become effect from September 2026, so pupils applying for places in 2026-2027 will be under the new admissions arrangements.

The changes will not affect pupils already attending the school.  

Full details of the consultation can be found in the document below.

Why your views matter

We want to hear your views on our proposal.