Perthshire boarding school closes a year after being saved
A spokesperson says they were left with "no choice but to close" after Achieve Education were unable to complete the legal purchase of the school
Last updated 13th Aug 2024
A year after being saved, Kilgraston School has announced it will permanently close today, 13th August.
In June 2023, the Perthshire boarding school announced it was set to close before a fundraising effort and partnership with Achive Education, who stepped in to "financially support and manage the school in the short term," kept it open.
However, the education provider can no longer proceed with a planned legal purchase of the school, which the board of trustees say left them with "no choice but to close" as they were left with "both a short and long-term funding deficit."
All pupils, parents and staff members have been informed, and the school say discussions are ongoing to ensure that alternative arrangements can be made for all affected.
A spokesperson for the board of trustees, said: “Last year was extremely difficult for the Kilgraston community, as we faced significant challenges to keep the school open. Education provider Achieve Education stepped in to financially support and manage the school in the short term and to buy the school in the longer term.
“Unfortunately, recent unexpected changes within Achieve Education have resulted in them reassessing their commitment to investing in Kilgraston and they are unable to proceed with the legal purchase of the school.
“As a result, we have been left with both a short and long-term funding deficit. The Board of Trustees has explored a number of opportunities in a bid to save the school but unfortunately none of these have offered a financially viable solution. This leaves the school with no choice but to close.
“At this point, we have three priorities: the welfare of staff, the welfare of pupils; and assistance for parents in finding places for their children at other schools. We will do all we can to help ensure a smooth transition for all affected. We are very sorry not to be able to continue operating a school that is close to all our hearts.”
Following the announcement, Morrison's Academy shared their sympathies on social media, saying: "We are saddened to hear the news that Kilgraston School will not be opening for the new school year."
Strathallan School also shared a similar sentiment, saying: "The entire Strathallan community is shocked and saddened to learn of the closure of Kilgraston School with immediate effect and wishes to extend our support for all families affected by the announcement."
The school was established in 1930 and opened with 40 boarders.