St Joseph’s Preparatory School, a Roman Catholic co-educational school in Stoke-on-Trent offering nursery, pre-prep and teaching for Years 1 to 6, has announced it will close on 31 December as a results of “changes coming regarding independent school funding”.

On its website the school said: “In making their decision the Trustees have focused on the varied financial challenges, which the school community has faced in recent years, and the changes coming regarding independent school funding. This has been an incredibly difficult decision and one not taken lightly.

“The Trustees would wish to acknowledge the commitment of parents, governors and staff of St Joseph’s Prep and would wish to thank all those involved who have served and committed their time, in the interests of ensuring the children have received an excellent education.

“The Trustees will work with the Governors and staff to bring this decision into effect in a manner that causes the least possible negative impact, particularly for the children who will require new school places, as a result of this decision.

“Our prayers are with everybody at this heartbreaking time.”