Consultation on a Proposed Reduction in the Published Admission Number (PAN)
12th December 2025
Dear Parents, Carers and Stakeholders,
Consultation on a Proposed Reduction in the Published Admission Number (PAN)
In accordance with the requirements of the School Admissions Code (September 2021), Dorchester Primary School, as its own admission authority, is consulting on a proposed change to its admission arrangements.
We are proposing to reduce the Published Admission Number (PAN) for entry to the Reception Year from 90 to 60, effective from the September 2026 intake. Dorchester Primary School has operated with a PAN of 60 for the past five years, and this proposal seeks to formally align the PAN with the school’s actual intake during that period.
The proposal has been carefully considered by the Governing Body, taking into account:
- Current and projected pupil numbers
- Accommodation and class organisation
- The efficient and effective use of resources
- Our commitment to maintaining high standards of education
Please note that this proposal relates only to the admissions number. All other oversubscription criteria will remain unchanged.
We are consulting with parents, staff, the Local Authority, neighbouring schools, local community groups, and other stakeholders, as required by the Admissions Code. The consultation period will run for six weeks from 12th December 2025 to 23rd January 2026.
If you wish to comment on the proposal, please do so in writing by 23rd January to:
Cathy Bell
Headteacher,
Dorchester Primary School,
Worcester Park
KT4 8PG
Or by email to office@dorchesterprimary.com
Following the consultation, the Governing Body will consider all responses received before making a final determination on the PAN. The determined admission arrangements will be published on the school’s website by 15 March 2026, in line with statutory requirements.
We value your views, and thank you for taking the time to consider this consultation.
Yours sincerely,
Cathy Bell Jane Templeman
Headteacher Chair of Governors