Ruthin School, one of the United Kingdom's oldest educational institutions, has announced its impending closure. The private school, located in Denbighshire, North Wales, has a history that dates back to 1284 and was re-established in 1574 by Gabriel Goodman, Dean of Westminster.
The school's relocation to a purpose-built building designed by John Douglas occurred in 1893. Among its notable former students is Julian Lennon, son of musician John Lennon, who attended in the 1980s. Ruthin School has been co-educational since 1990.
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Just last year, the school was recognized in The Sunday Times Parent Power rankings as one of Wales's leading independent schools. However, the institution faced negative publicity in 2020 when its headmaster was dismissed following allegations of sending inappropriate messages to students.
Staff and pupils were informed of the closure on Wednesday afternoon, with operations set to conclude at the end of the current academic year. Annual fees for full boarding at Ruthin School are approximately £55,000, with day pupils paying up to £18,500.
The closure is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, as the school is a major employer in the town of Ruthin. Councillor Anne Roberts, deputy mayor, described the news as "very sad" and "huge for Ruthin," noting the substantial effect it will have on the community.
Other local independent schools have offered support to those affected. Rydal Penrhos School in Colwyn Bay extended its sympathies and offered assistance to pupils, parents, and staff, emphasizing a commitment to providing a welcoming environment and continuity of education. Myddelton College in Denbigh also invited affected families to visit and learn more about their offerings.