Stoke College in Stoke-by-Clare, Suffolk, an independent school with origins dating back to 1415, closed at the end of the summer term 2026 and will not reopen.
Financial pressures cited for closure
The school blamed the introduction of VAT on school fees, the removal of business rates relief, rising employment costs, and increasing operational expenditure for its financial challenges. The government introduced VAT to help pay for more state school teachers in England.
Liquidators were appointed on July 22, 2026, according to The Gazette. The latest publicly available financial documents for Cambridge Stoke College Ltd show an after-tax loss of £1.6 million for 2024.
School history and ownership
The historic site originated as a religious college in 1415 and operated as a school since 1954. In November 2019, Stoke College was bought by new owners. At the time of its closure on July 1, the school taught 119 pupils, according to Companies House.
Support for students and staff
Announcing the closure, the school said: "The immediate priority is to support students, families and staff through this transition and to ensure continuity of education for every child." Stoke College added that it would work with nearby independent schools to secure spots for pupils.
Principal Kim Terrar said: "This is an incredibly sad day for everyone connected with Stoke College. While we do not yet know what the future holds for this beautiful site, my focus now is on finding the best way forward for our incredible students and staff."
Joe Whiley of Insolvency Direct Ltd has been appointed liquidator.
