Private girls school seeks new group owner

  • 22nd October 2024

Malvern St James Girls’ School in Great Malvern, Worcestershire is aiming to join a “family” of schools, the Malvern Gazette has reported.

Malvern St James is an independent boarding and day school for pupils aged four to 18.

The school’s chair of governors Michael Hodges revealed the school has entered into a period of exclusivity with an education group.

The school said it is taking this course because of the imminent 20% VAT charge on school fees, the cost of living crisis, and a shortage of teachers in key subjects.

Hodges said: “We have been looking for several years to align ourselves with the right sort of group, but in recent months we have been focusing on this with increasing intensity.

“Joining a family of schools will give us quite a lot of exciting opportunities and unlock the benefits and security that provides. We have been looking to find a group that aligns with our values to ensure the school has a long-term future providing quality education.

“It is impossible to make commitments for the future but it is safe to say there are no anticipated changes to the school other than the opportunity to become more outward-looking.”

In a letter to parents the school said: “Like most independent schools in the UK, Malvern St James is facing significant challenges.

“These include the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, the Government’s announcement to impose VAT on independent schools, and teacher shortages in key subjects.

“After careful consideration, one of the options we are now exploring is joining a ‘family’ of schools, both in the UK and internationally, through a change of ownership.

“We understand that change can feel unsettling, but we want to reassure you that the Governors’ focus is on securing a bright and sustainable future for Malvern St James.”

Keep Updated

Sign up to our weekly newsletter to receive the latest news.