Exeter Cathedral announces prep school closure amid 'unavoidable financial pressures'

Exeter Cathedral School has announced it will close the prep part of the school due to "unavoidable financial pressures".

Exeter Cathedral School said it had taken the "extremely difficult decision" to close the prep part of the school, for years three to eight, from September 2026.

The 12th century school said it hopes the announcement gives families time to find "alternative school placements".

In a statement the school said: "We understand the impact this will have on our entire school community, our students and their families, as well as our dedicated staff and we are committed to working closely with everyone to provide guidance and support, including assistance with next steps for students and staff.

They added: "Exeter Cathedral School will remain open in its current form until the end of the summer term in July 2026, continuing to provide high-quality education and pastoral care throughout this period."

The school, which earliest written reference dates back to 1179, was founded as The Chorister School.

It said it had been agreed for Inspired Learning Group (ILG) to take over running its nursery and pre prep, up to year two, from September.

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