127‑year‑old private prep school to close its doors

A private preparatory school with a 127‑year heritage is set to close its doors, marking the end of a long‑standing tradition in its community. The historic institution, known for its strong academic reputation and rich legacy, has announced its decision to shut down due to declining enrollment and rising operational costs. The closure leaves students, staff, and families grappling with its loss, highlighting the growing challenges faced by traditional private schools today.

A private school located in West Yorkshire will shut down at the end of the autumn term, citing the introduction of VAT on fees and rising operational expenses as reasons for its financial difficulties. Moorlands School in Leeds, established in 1898, will close permanently on 31 December after 127 years of operation.

The school shared that its trustees reached this conclusion on Wednesday due to mounting economic pressures affecting independent schools, with little indication that these challenges will ease. The Department for Education noted that removing tax benefits for private schools is expected to generate £1.8 billion annually by 2029/30, helping to fund public services and support the majority of children in state schools.

The school explained that the decision came after extensive consideration and a comprehensive review of its ability to remain financially viable. They further highlighted that several factors, including VAT on fees, falling interest and enrolments, the end of charitable relief on business rates, higher Employer National Insurance costs, limited options for a small school to reduce fixed costs, and increasing maintenance budgets, have all contributed to the decision.

This preparatory school, part of the Methodist Independent Schools Trust, serves children between the ages of two and eleven. The school assured that the decision does not reflect on the dedication of its staff or the governing body, and that teachers will continue delivering education and activities without disruption.

They expressed pride in Moorlands as a cherished place for learning and growth, where generations of students have been shaped by its culture and values. Although the closure signifies the end of an era, the school said its traditions and memories will live on in the hearts of those connected to it.

In communication with parents, the school promised to assist families in finding the best options for their children's continued education. Brontë House, another primary school under the same trust, will be reaching out to Moorlands families regarding potential placements for pupils.

One parent, Jonathan Marsden, described the news as heartbreaking for the community, noting that families now have to make urgent decisions because of the closure. He said it was incredibly challenging to explain to a young child at breakfast that they would soon need to move to a new school without having clear answers.

Mr Marsden pointed out that private schools often serve families from a range of backgrounds, including many parents in public sector roles such as healthcare. He explained that many families chose Moorlands because of its extended care services, not because they were wealthy.

The school mentioned that families whose children leave during the autumn term will receive a refund for fees on a pro-rata basis. Richmond House School, another independent school nearby, shared its sympathy for those impacted and reassured that it remains financially stable with strong enrolment and healthy reserves.

The headteacher of Froebelian School in Horsforth also expressed sorrow at the news, offering support to affected families and acknowledging the uncertainty they now face. The Department for Education stated that about 50 mainstream private schools typically close each year, and local councils and schools usually help families during these transitions.

They also expressed confidence in the ability of local state schools to accommodate additional pupils.

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Source: bbc‍