AN INDEPENDENT Solihull school is set to close its doors for the final time at the end of term.
Ruckleigh School confirmed in an email to to parents on Sunday that it will close at the end of the academic year.
The Lode Lane school said following an extensive review of its financial position and long-term sustainability, the directors concluded the school can no longer continue to operate in a viable manner.
A statement from the school said like many independent schools across the UK, Ruckleigh had faced a number of challenges including rising operating costs, ongoing cost-of-living pressures affecting families, changing demographic trends resulting in reduced pupil numbers, and the introduction of VAT on independent school fees from January 2025.
It added: “The decision to close has not been taken lightly. Directors explored a range of options to secure the future of the school, including cost-saving measures and alternative operating models.
“However, declining pupil numbers and escalating costs have made continued operation unsustainable. Independent schools across the country have reported similar pressures arising from demographic changes, increased employment costs, and the impact of VAT on fees.”
In January the Government instroduced a VAT measure on all private schools – meaning education and boarding services provided by a private school or connected person have to pay VAT at the standard 20 per cent rate.
Parents have hit out at the news of the closure after being reassured by the school that rumours about the closure were untrue.
One parent, who wished to stay anonymous told The Observer: “The sudden nature of the announcement, combined with previous reassurances that the school would remain open, has left many families feeling disappointed and concerned.
“Parents, pupils, and staff deserved clear, timely, and transparent communication regarding the future of the school.”
The school added that support will be provided to help families identify suitable alternative schools and to assist staff as they consider their next steps and further information regarding transition arrangements will be communicated directly to parents and staff in the coming weeks.
