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.
Farsley Co-Work launch: Where community meets productivity
By Josie Armitage
I attended the launch of Farsley Co Work at Springfield Mills on Thursday 20th March. It’s a lovely light space that has a green link to the outdoors and has separate desks for co-working.
There is also a comfy seated breakout area at the back, which is a relaxed space for casual meetings and building connections. This also has lovely prints by Lucy Johnson from Lucy Victoria Arts.
There are two Focus pods – quiet spaces you can book for making private calls. Don’t forget refreshments! There is a kitchen area with Yorkshire Tea and Nespresso Coffee and facilities for printing and scanning.
What is especially amazing about this space is that Phil Johnson and Sam Booth, the two co-founders, came up with the idea, received the keys on 1 March, and did all the work themselves to have a decorated and furnished space for the launch on 20 March! Super quick but looks so professional.
The lunchtime launch was well attended and there was a second launch in the evening. Lots of familiar faces local to the area showing great interest in the space.
They are open seven days a week, from 7am to 9pm.
Sam says: “When I started to work for myself, I thought it was fantastic that I could work from home every day.
“But over time I started to miss some of the perks of working in an office. I hope that our new workspace can provide a change of scenery, a sense of community, and be a productive environment for all our members.”
Phil says: “We wanted to create a space that not only Sam and myself could be proud of but an environment that could serve the wider community locally.
“We feel it’s something that has been missing, and hopefully, we have gone some way in filling that void, giving the people of Farsley and the surrounding areas an accessible and affordable alternative.”
The lunchtime launch was well attended and there was a second launch in the evening. Lots of familiar faces local to the area showing great interest in the space.
Clare Clifford, from Sunshine Digital Media. attended the launch and said: “As a small business owner I’m really excited to use this fabulous new office space.
“Working alone and around a young family can be both lonely and distracting. Both have an impact on my productivity and mental health. Having a space like this to use on a flexible basis has filled a massive gap in our local community. I’m really looking forward to meeting and collaborating with other local business owners. Also the coffee is top notch!”
You can find out how to become a member by visiting the website.
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