Two historic South West schools close prep departments amid financial strain
Two prominent schools in the South West are closing their preparatory departments due to rising costs and financial pressures. The Royal High School in Bath will end its nursery and early years provision, while Warminster School plans to sell its prep site by 2026.
The Royal High School, founded in 1865 with support from Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale, will shut its prep department after this summer term. Pupils from nursery to year four will no longer be admitted, and girls in years five and six will move to the senior school site on Lansdown Road from September 2026. Headteacher Heidi-Jayne Boyes explained that the changes aim to secure the school's future and build a stronger, unified community. Imogen Pudduck, chairwoman of governors, backed the decision, calling it a step to reinforce the school's identity.
The school merged with Bath High School in 1998, with the former Royal School campus becoming the senior site. Now, financial challenges—including the new VAT on school fees—have forced further restructuring. Meanwhile, Warminster School announced last June that it would sell its prep site and relocate all pupils to the senior campus by 2026. The move follows the collapse of nearby Bishopstrow College, which entered administration last summer after years of financial difficulty. Local MP Dr Andrew Murrison criticised the government's tax policies, blaming them for the college's closure.
Both schools are adapting to financial strain and shifting demand. The Royal High School will focus on a consolidated senior campus, while Warminster School prepares to centralise its operations. The changes will take full effect by the 2026 academic year.
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