By John Baron
Fulneck School bosses have blamed falling pupil numbers and rising costs for the planned closure of the historic Pudsey institution.
In an announcement on social media today, the school announced it is due to close on 8 July 2025.
The  independent day and boarding school is based in the historic Moravian settlement of Fulneck and dates back to 1753.
The full statement said: “It is with deep regret that we announce the planned closure of Fulneck School, which is scheduled to take place on 8 July 2025.
“Despite the dedicated efforts of the school and the Fulneck Trustees to sustain pupil numbers, a continued decline in enrolment, combined with rising operational costs, has made it increasingly challenging to maintain financial viability.
“Following a comprehensive strategic review and the exploration of all possible alternatives, the Trustees have made the difficult decision to plan for the school’s closure. We understand that this announcement will be distressing for our pupils, parents, staff, and the wider school community.
“The Trustees, Board of Governors and the school are committed to ensuring that the school year finishes as planned, with all teaching continuing until the end of the school year and pupils completing public and internal examinations as intended.
“We are also committed to ensure a smooth transition for all affected and will offer support to our pupils, parents, and staff throughout this process.
“We sincerely thank our school community for its dedication and support over the years.”
One former pupil added: “I am deeply saddened to hear this news. I spent part of my youth at this extraordinary school, which truly shaped me. Thanks to Fulneck School, I was able to flourish and found the desire to succeed.
“A part of me will disappear with the closure of this school. I believe it would be meaningful to organise an open day for former pupils, so we can reunite, share our memories, and properly celebrate the legacy and many years of Fulneck School’s existence.”
Another added: “Absolutely devastating when we remember the school has been going since the 1740s and education has been so important to the Moravian church throughout the centuries and throughout the world. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected (including our two grandchildren).”
Pudsey’s councillors reacted with shock to the news.
Cllr Trish Smith (ind) said: “I’m devastated to read this. My thoughts and prayers are with you all, such sad news.”
Cllr Simon Seary (Cons) added: “We are absolutely shocked and devastated to hear the news that Fulneck School will be closing at the end of this academic year. This is an incredibly sad day for the pupils, staff, and wider school community who have made Fulneck such a special place for generations.
“With over 250 years of history coming to an end, this loss will be deeply felt by so many. Students are losing their school, dedicated staff face uncertainty, and families now have to navigate difficult transitions. My thoughts are with everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time.”
Fulneck School was established in 1753 in order to provide an education for the sons and daughters of the Church’s ministers and missionaries. Famous former pupils include actress Dame Diana Rigg and HH Asquith, who was Prime Minister between 1908–16.