A renowned British educational institution with a rich 742-year history, Ruthin School, is set to permanently close its doors, causing emotional distress among its students. The school, located in North Wales, a co-educational boarding and day school, will not resume operations after the current term concludes.
The decision to shut down the school was announced by Galaxy Global Education Group, a Chinese-owned entity that acquired the school earlier in 2023. The group also confirmed the closure of Durham High School on the same day.
Over 100 employees are facing potential job losses, while parents of around 240 students are now seeking alternative educational options for their children, as reported by North Wales Live.
Established in 1284, Ruthin School holds a significant position as one of the oldest educational institutions in the UK. It is expected to enter financial administration upon closure at the end of the summer term.
Despite its longstanding heritage and academic reputation, the school’s inability to sustain its operations led to the closure, according to North Wales Live. Notably, the school was recently recognized as the top independent school in North Wales in The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 and ranked among the leading boarding schools in the UK by the Independent Schools Council.
Galaxy Global expressed deep regret over the closure, describing it as a profoundly sorrowful event for all associated with Ruthin School. Despite extensive efforts to secure the school’s future, establishing a financially viable path forward proved unattainable.
In response to the sudden closure, a mother of a Ruthin School student expressed shock and emotional distress, highlighting the unexpected nature of the news and the impact on her child. Similarly, a parent from Mold shared sentiments of sadness and uncertainty regarding the future education of their children due to the abrupt closure.
Meanwhile, a parent of a Durham High School student disclosed that the students were instructed to clear out their lockers the same day the closure was announced. Families who paid monthly fees were caught off guard as the closure news followed shortly after fee collections.
The community mourns the end of Ruthin School’s 742-year legacy, with well wishes extended to all affected by similar circumstances.
