Balfour Road is named after Arthur Balfour, who served as Prime Minister in 1902 when the Education Act of that year made education compulsory.
Balfour Road sees Salisbury Road and Chamberlain Road located nearby. These roads were named after prominent British politicians of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, likely due to the influence of landowner Charles Steel, a Conservative Party supporter.
Arthur Balfour was Prime Minister in 1902. Prior to this, the 1870 Education Act had allowed local communities to offer education and recoup the costs through "rates" (now known as Council Tax), resulting in inconsistent provision across the country. The passing of the 1902 Act led to a significant increase in school construction, and the former Northfield School was built during this period, sharing its design with Little Ealing School to save on costs.
Before becoming Prime Minister, Arthur Balfour served in the cabinet of his uncle, Lord Salisbury, after whom Salisbury Road is named.
Chamberlain Road is named after Joseph Chamberlain (1836-1914), who was a prominent campaigner for educational reform in his early years. He served as the Mayor of Birmingham before becoming a Member of Parliament.
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Balfour Road is named after Arthur Balfour, who served as Prime Minister in 1902 when the Education Act of that year made education compulsory. 
