Overview
- The governing board, in a letter to parents on Monday, said the school will shut at the end of this term, joining more than 100 independent schools that have closed since the VAT change.
- The letter cited a 20% value‑added tax on private school fees, the loss of business rates relief, higher wage and pension costs, and rising utility bills as creating unsustainable pressure.
- The school will seek to merge resources with Finborough School in Stowmarket, and Head Amanda Faye said she aims to place 180 pupils and help 67 staff find new roles.
- Local leaders and nearby schools are helping families plan moves, with special focus on children who have Education, Health and Care Plans or other special educational needs.
- Reaction has split, with Nigel Farage blaming the VAT policy while MP Terry Jermy pointed to years of falling enrolment and losses under private ownership.