Historic Gloucestershire Private School Announces Permanent Closure
Rendcomb College, a prominent independent school in Gloucestershire, has confirmed it will shut its doors permanently this summer, bringing an end to its 106-year history of operation. The closure decision directly impacts 380 students who will now need to secure placements at alternative educational institutions.
Financial Pressures and Policy Changes Cited as Primary Causes
The school's governing body has pointed to severe ongoing financial challenges facing the private education sector, compounded by a noticeable decline in pupil numbers, as the fundamental reasons behind this difficult outcome. These financial strains have been significantly exacerbated by recent government policy shifts affecting independent schools across the United Kingdom.
Specifically, on January 1, 2025, the Labour Party government implemented substantial changes by removing tax exemptions previously afforded to private schools. This policy involved applying a standard 20 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) rate to school fees and eliminating charitable business rate relief, measures that have placed considerable additional burden on school finances.
A Wider Sector Trend of Independent School Closures
Rendcomb College is not an isolated case. Last year, another established institution, Mount St Mary’s College and Barlborough Hall School, located on the outskirts of Chesterfield in Derbyshire, similarly informed parents of its impending closure. This indicates a broader pattern of financial distress within the UK's independent education landscape.
Shaun Whyman, Chair of Governors for the Derbyshire schools, provided detailed context, stating: "From 2015 onwards, the schools have faced increasing financial pressures, in line with the wider challenges affecting the independent education sector in the UK, including the addition of VAT on school fees and the removal of business rates relief for independent schools."
He further explained, "Despite the extraordinary efforts of staff, parents, and supporters, the schools have been unable to reach a sustainable financial position." Whyman acknowledged the support received from the Jesuits in Britain, including the gifting of land, buildings, and investments, alongside over £3 million in loans provided on generous terms to help sustain operations during difficult periods.
Exhaustive Efforts to Secure a Future Prove Unsuccessful
According to reports, governors and senior leadership teams engaged in tireless efforts since early 2025 to prevent closure. They pursued complex negotiations to explore various financial models and actively sought a new owner who would respect the schools’ established ethos and build upon their academic achievements.
Initially, several educational organisations expressed interest, and one potential partner remained in detailed, hopeful negotiations until the final few days before the decision was made. Ultimately, these exhaustive attempts to secure an alternative future and ensure continuity for both pupils and staff were not successful, leading to the confirmed closure.
The shutdown of Rendcomb College marks a significant moment for the local community and the independent school sector, highlighting the intense financial and operational pressures being faced following recent legislative changes.
