TWO more private schools owned by a Chinese firm have closed, weeks after it closed Malvern St James.
Durham High School and Ruthin School in North Wales both told staff and parents last week that they would be closing for good.
In an emotional statement, shared on its website, Durham High School described the closure as an “incredibly sad chapter”.
School’s emotional goodbye
“Today, we write the last chapter in this incredible history. It is a terribly sad chapter as our owners are closing the school at the end of this term,” a spokesperson for Durham High School said.
“To the 281 current pupils, we are deeply sorry you will not have the chance to reach the end of your journey in this truly special school. Go with strength and the values you embody to make a difference in your next chapter.
PROTEST: Pupils protested the closure of Durham High School (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
“To our talented and deeply committed staff, know that the time you have invested in sharing your joy of learning with our pupils has given them the greatest foundation for life.
“To our parents, thank you for being so caring and compassionate in your love of Durham High and your engagement in our wonderful school community.”
Ruthin School is yet to make a public statement but its Google profile states that it is “permanently closed”.
Unlike Malvern St James, both schools have entered administration.
READ MORE: UK private school confirms it will definitely close this year
Chinese firm takeover
ADMINISTRATION: Ruthin School is another one of the schools closing this year (Image: Ruthin School)
All three schools, which were taken on by Chinese company Galaxy Global Education in recent years, will close their doors for the final time this month.
The company’s website is currently under maintenance but according to a previous LinkedIn post, it also owns Plymouth College in Devon, which remains open.
READ MORE: Parents launch bid to save UK private school from closure
Firm’s response
Despite concerns about Galaxy Global’s intentions with the three schools, it has insisted that it invested in Malvern St James, Ruthin School and Durham High School but was unable to secure their futures.
“We fully understand why the closures of Malvern St James, Durham High School and Ruthin School have caused concern,” a spokesperson said.
“These have been deeply upsetting decisions for the pupils, families, staff and wider communities affected, and we are profoundly sorry that we have reached this point.
“Each school faced its own individual circumstances and financial challenges, but all were operating against the backdrop of unprecedented pressures across the independent schools sector, including rising employment costs, declining pupil numbers in many areas and the additional financial burden created by VAT on independent school fees.
“Every realistic option to secure the future of each school was explored before these decisions were taken, including discussions with potential investors and other education providers where appropriate.”
READ MORE: MP accuses government of ‘politics of envy’ as independent school proposes closure
What will happen to the school sites?
Galaxy Global added: “With regard to the school sites, the position differs in each case.
“Durham High School and Ruthin School have entered administration and, following the appointment of the joint administrators, decisions regarding those sites are now a matter for them as part of the administration process.
“Malvern St James did not enter administration and no decision has yet been taken regarding the future of that site. All options remain under consideration.”
