The Trustees of Methodist Independent Schools Trust have announced that Moorlands School, a prep school in Weetwood, Leeds, will close at the end of the autumn term, on 31 December.

It is the second Leeds private school to announce its closure in recent months following the fate of Fulneck School in Pudsey, which announced in March that it is closing in the summer.

Moorlands School was first established in 1897.

On the school’s website the trustees stated: “This decision followed a period of careful reflection and a thorough review of the School’s financial viability, in the face of increasingly difficult economic conditions that are impacting many independent schools and show little sign of abating. The introduction of VAT on school fees, alongside a decline in enquiries and registrations, the withdrawal of charitable relief on business rates, increases in employer national insurance contributions, the limited ability of a small school to reduce fixed costs, and the rising budgets required for the upkeep of the school site and buildings, have sadly all contributed to an unsustainable financial position.

“The decision is not a reflection of the excellent care and quality of education offered by Moorlands’ staff, nor the tireless efforts of the School’s key staff and local Governing Body to secure a sustainable future for the School.

“Together with the key staff and the School Governors, we will work to ensure education and activities continue uninterrupted until the end of the Autumn Term. Meanwhile the School will liaise closely with each family to help secure the best possible next steps for their children.

“We are deeply grateful to all those who have contributed to Moorlands over the years – pupils past and present, families, staff and the wider community. Moorlands has been a special place of learning, growth, and community. The history, character, and culture of the School have shaped generations of pupils. While this marks the end of an era, the values and memories created here will remain with all those who have been part of its story.”