Jesuit-run Mount St Mary’s College and Barlborough Hall School in Spinkhill, Derbyshire announced they were both closing with immediate effect yesterday, citing the pressures of VAT on school fees and the removal of business rates relief for independent schools.

Barlborough is the affiliated prep school and Mount St Mary’s the senior school.

This is the first The Heads’ Conference school to close as a consequence of Labour’s financial policies concerning independent schools.

On its website the school said: “Mount St Mary’s College and Barlborough Hall have been cornerstones of our community for nearly 200 years, providing a nurturing and faith-filled environment for generations of children. Since 2004, when the schools became an independent charitable trust governed by a dedicated board of trustees, we have sought to uphold the values of Jesuit education and provide an environment in which young people can grow, reflect, and flourish.

“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. Despite the extraordinary efforts of staff, parents, and supporters, the schools have been unable to reach a sustainable financial position.

“Throughout this time, we have been supported by the Jesuits in Britain, to whom we are very grateful. In addition to gifting the school land, buildings, and investments when the trust was established, they have provided over £3 million in loans on generous terms to help sustain the schools through difficult years. These included deferred repayments, restructured agreements, and the release of property to enable sales – all intended to help us achieve long-term viability.

“Since early 2025, governors and senior leadership have worked tirelessly to prevent the closure of the schools, seeking an alternative future to ensure continuity for pupils and staff. They engaged in complex negotiations to explore different financial models and to find a new owner who would respect the schools’ ethos and build on their achievements. Initially, several educational organisations expressed interest, and one potential partner remained in detailed negotiations until the last few days.

“However, despite these efforts, no viable option emerged. As of the end of July, the level of debt and lack of a realistic path to financial viability mean we have no alternative but to proceed into Administration. We know this will be met with sadness, disappointment, and even anger by those who love these schools. We share that sorrow and are committed to being as open and supportive as possible in the weeks ahead. The Administrators have assured us that all options available for the future will be considered.

“Our priority now, as we process this news, is the wellbeing of our pupils, their families, and our staff. There will be immediate challenges as the schools enter formal insolvency.” procedures, during which the appointed professionals will manage the next steps. Regrettably, all ongoing activities, including the Holiday Club, will end with immediate effect.”