Children’s services provider Polaris Community has acquired Dale House Independent School and Nursery in Batley, West Yorkshire.

Established by Andrew and Sarah Fletcher in 1999, Dale House has been an independent prep school with a capacity for up to 120 children aged two to 11 years. It occupied a former Edwardian Sunday school that was originally built for the St. John’s Church congregation in 1907 and extended in 2002.

Having battled a serious illness, Andrew is stepping back from the bursar’s role and Sarah is retiring to help look after him.

The Fletcher said: “It was very sad to see such a lovely and successful school close, but we are delighted that it will remain as a school, providing desperately needed specialist services for the children in Kirklees.”

Loren Cahill, project manager for Polaris Community, commented: “With this remarkable space, we are poised to provide the best outcomes for young people, offering a nurturing, supportive and empowering environment to learn, grow and thrive. We cannot wait to open the doors to this school and witness the positive impact we will undoubtedly make in the lives of these promising young individuals.”

Business property advisor Christie & Co facilitated the sale.

Vicky Marsland, associate director, childcare and education at Christie & Co, said: “Whilst there are a select number of large independent school providers in the UK that remain the subject of strong investment, unfortunately, we have seen those smaller schools struggling to compete when the time comes to sell and retire. As the SEND schools sector continues to thrive due to the growing demand for suitable settings that support the needs of children who are unable to access mainstream education, the demand for vacant possessions on independent schools has increased.”

Dale House Independent School and Nursery was sold for an undisclosed price.