One of Salisbury’s oldest independent schools to close its prep school

  • 15th January 2025

Godolphin, which opened in 1784, is forming a partnership with Chafyn Grove under the United Learning Group.

The announcement comes as Chafyn Grove also announced it is joining the United Learning group, which Godolphin is already a part of. The two schools will now enter into a partnership, with Godolphin’s prep school closing, and its pupils being offered places at Chafyn Grove. All Chafyn Grove pupils will also automatically be entitled to a place at Godolphin.

In a letter seen by the Salisbury Journal dated Wednesday, January 8, Chafyn Grove School said: “We intend that the school will join United Learning at Easter and, from September, Godolphin will be closing its prep school and its pupils will all be offered places at Chafyn Grove. In the same way, at the appropriate time, all Chafyn Grove pupils will automatically be entitled to a place at Godolphin.

The letter adds: “The future for stand-alone prep schools is particularly precarious at present; not only due to the introduction of VAT on fees but also in terms of ensuring we remain at the cutting edge in terms of staff development, health and safety, safeguarding and education policy. By joining a highly successful and experienced group of schools we are future-proofing Chafyn Grove for the challenges of the years ahead whilst also giving certainty and surety to our existing families.”

Simon Head, head of Chafyn Grove, said: “Chafyn Grove is delighted to build on and strengthen our relationship with Godolphin. As well as already sharing a deep commitment to developing each child’s potential, this partnership represents a new and enhanced opportunity for all of our pupils, Salisbury and the wider area.”

Jenny Price, head of Godolphin, said: “Godolphin and Chafyn Grove share a long-standing commitment to academic excellence, pastoral care, and co-curricular opportunities. By coming together, we are building on our shared traditions and strengths to create an even brighter future for our pupils and the local community. This collaboration ensures that every child will have access to the highest quality education in a supportive and inspiring environment.”

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