Oxfordshire private school announces closure after 160 years
Governors at Our Lady's Abingdon (OLA) say extensive talks took place with other schools and organisations, with the hope of securing a merger or acquisition but talks broke down.
The school says it has been under economic pressure citing the introduction of VAT on school fees, and rising operational costs as two of the reasons.
A spokesperson for the school said its immediate focus will be on supporting families in securing alternative school places, assisting staff through the redundancy process, and helping them find new employment.
A statement read: "It is with our deepest regret that we inform our parents, students, staff, and local community that the Governors have taken the heartbreaking decision to close the school with immediate effect.
"This course of action has been taken only after exhausting every possible option to secure the schools' future. For more than 160 years, OLA has delivered a distinctive education rooted in Catholic values, guiding generations of young people to fulfil their potential.
"The schools' proud legacy has been built on academic ambition, exceptional pastoral care, and the unwavering dedication of its staff, past and present.
"In recent months, the Governors have explored every possible avenue to avoid closure. Extensive talks took place with other schools and organisations, with the hope of securing a merger or acquisition.
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"Until very recently, there was genuine optimism that a solution could be found. Sadly, those talks broke down last week, leaving no viable path forward.
"A range of economic pressures has led to this outcome, mainly the introduction of VAT on school fees, higher National Insurance contributions, the ending of business rates relief for independent schools, and rising operational costs.
"Despite every effort to limit fee increases, affordability has become a growing concern for an increasing number of families. This has led to a sharp decline in pupil numbers in recent months, threatening the school's short and long-term viability.
"The closure will affect the entire school community and beyond the wider Abingdon area. Our immediate focus will be on supporting families in securing alternative school places in Oxfordshire, assisting staff through the redundancy process, and helping them find new employment.
"A contingency plan is in place to ensure Year 11 and Year 13 students receive full support with their examination results and onward progression.
'We are truly heartbroken to have taken the decision to close OLA. Our deepest gratitude goes to the remarkable staff, loyal parents, and inspiring students who have made OLA such a special place for so many years.
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