Moorland School, a private boarding school in Clitheroe, Lancashire, is closing its senior division on March 28, 2025, after more than a century of educating students. The institution, which charges around £36,000 a year in fees, has faced significant financial challenges leading to this abrupt decision, impacting approximately 60 to 75 pupils and their families.
The announcement came just weeks before GCSE exams, leaving many students in distress. In a heartfelt letter to parents, Jonathan Harrison, the school's proprietor, expressed his "great sadness and deep and heartfelt sorrow" regarding the closure. He described the decision as the hardest of his life, stating, "We have looked strongly into all other possibilities of continuing to run Moorland Senior School, at least until the end of the academic year in July, but sadly this is just not economically viable."
The letter outlined several factors contributing to the closure, including deteriorating affordability, a decline in full fee-paying parents, rising operating costs, and the imposition of VAT on school fees by the new Labour government. Harrison noted that the school was owed approximately £200,000 in fees and highlighted the financial strain on his family, revealing that he and his wife had personally lost £770,000 in the previous year and had invested an additional £70,000 to keep the school afloat.
In light of the closure, neighboring schools, including Westholme School in Blackburn, are stepping in to assist with the administration of GCSE and A-Level exams for affected students. Harrison mentioned that Westholme is exploring the option of administering examinations under their center number to minimize disruption during this stressful time.
The closure announcement has sparked concern among parents and staff, many of whom were caught off guard. One staff member described the scene as "absolutely terrible," noting that children were distraught and scrambling to contact their families for support. The emotional toll of the situation has been palpable, with parents expressing their heartbreak over the sudden decision.
Despite the challenges, Harrison emphasized the school's long-standing commitment to education, stating, "This school has been run by my family for 37 years and by myself for the past 15. It’s a great school, and it’s not a Ferrari-driving or Lamborghini community. A lot of parents are making massive sacrifices to be able to send their children to private school." He criticized the government's stance on private education, suggesting that policies have disproportionately affected institutions like Moorland.
In the wake of the announcement, Lancashire County Council is working to communicate with affected families, offering guidance and support as they navigate this unexpected transition. Parents have been encouraged to reach out for assistance regarding alternative schooling options in the local area.
Last year, Moorland School boasted an impressive GCSE pass rate of 88%, significantly above the national average of 67.6%. However, the school had faced scrutiny from inspectors for failing to meet certain standards related to the welfare of boarding pupils, including insufficient accommodations and inadequate training for staff.
The recent changes in the educational landscape, particularly the introduction of VAT on private school fees, have raised concerns among school leaders across the sector. Harrison's letter highlighted that the government's decision to impose a 20% tax on private school fees, effective January 2025, has already led to the closure of at least 16 schools. He expressed frustration over the lack of support from the government during this challenging time, stating, "The private education sector has come under constant attack from Labour's blind and uneducated policy."
As the closure date approaches, the community is rallying to support affected families and students. Harrison has even offered to take in some boarders in his own home while alternative accommodations are arranged. This gesture reflects the deep ties and commitment to the Moorland community, even in the face of adversity.
In summary, the closure of Moorland Senior School marks a significant moment in the local educational landscape, highlighting the challenges faced by private institutions amid changing government policies and economic pressures. As families grapple with this unexpected turn of events, the support from neighboring schools and local authorities will be crucial in helping students transition smoothly to new educational opportunities.
