Ruthin School, a historic co-educational boarding and day school in North Wales founded in 1284, is set to close permanently at the end of the summer term, leaving students in tears and parents scrambling for alternatives. The announcement was made by Chinese-owned Galaxy Global Education Group, which acquired the school in early 2023 and also owns Durham High School, which will close on the same day.
Impact on Students and Staff
Over 100 staff members will lose their jobs, while parents of approximately 240 pupils have been left searching for new schools. One mother from Ruthin 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 parent, from Mold, added: "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."
Financial Administration and Reasons for Closure
The school, one of the oldest educational institutions in the UK, will enter financial administration upon closure. Despite its strong academic reputation—recently named the top independent school in North Wales in The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 and ranked among the UK's leading boarding schools by the Independent Schools Council—the school has been unable to continue operating. 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."
Parent and Pupil Reactions
A parent of a Durham High pupil reported that girls were advised to clear their lockers shortly before the announcement. They said: "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."
