A historic UK school dating back 742 years is set to close for good, leaving students in “tears”. Ruthin school, a co-educational boarding and day school in North Wales will not be welcoming back students after the end of term.
The announcement was made by Chinese-owned Galaxy Global Education Group, which acquired the school in early 2023. The group also announced the closure of Durham High School on the same day. Over 100 staff will lose their jobs, while parents of around 240 pupils have been left searching for a new school for their child, reports North Wales Live.
Ruthin School, one of the oldest educational institutions in the UK, having been founded in 1284, is set to enter financial administration when it closes at the end of the summer term.
Despite its long history and strong academic reputation, the school has been unable to continue operating.
It was recently named the top independent school in North Wales in The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 and was also ranked among the UK’s leading boarding schools in league tables compiled by the Independent Schools Council.
Galaxy Global said it was “profoundly sorry” and that the closure was “incredibly sad” for everyone connected with Ruthin School.
A spokesperson added: “Despite every effort to secure the school’s future, it has not been possible to establish a financially viable way forward.”
One of the mothers from Ruthin school said: “It’s a high surprise to parents like me. We found out today at 4pm, and I have had a 12-year-old crying her eyes out all evening.”
Another, from Mold, said: “It’s awful. Not sure how we are going to move forward. One going into year 11 and one going into year 7. We’re all shocked beyond belief and so, so sad.”
One of the parents of a Durham High pupil added: “The girls were advised to clear their lockers this afternoon.
They took fees from the families that pay monthly yesterday morning and then sent the letter out about closure a few hours later.
“School closes today after 142 years, very sad for everyone. Best of luck to anyone in a similar situation.”