Schools & Education · Wiltshire-wide
Wiltshire schools offer support following sudden closure of neighbouring private school
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
St Francis School in Pewsey and Warminster School have stepped forward to assist families displaced by the immediate closure of Leweston School in Dorset.
Two prominent Wiltshire schools have offered support to families following the abrupt closure of Leweston School, an independent institution near Sherborne in Dorset. The school announced it would cease operations with immediate effect, leaving pupils and staff with little notice ahead of the half-term break.
The closure has reportedly caused significant disruption for students, including those in the midst of university applications. While the school has indicated that pupils may be able to transition to other institutions within the Inspired Learning Group, such as Clayesmore School and Sunninghill Prep, the sudden nature of the announcement has prompted local schools in Wiltshire to step in and offer additional guidance.
St Francis School in Pewsey, which is part of the Inspired Learning Group, has stepped forward to assist families despite Leweston School not being part of that same group. In a statement released to the community, a spokesperson for St Francis said: "We were deeply saddened to hear today's news of the closure of Leweston School. Our thoughts are with its pupils, families and staff at what must be an incredibly difficult and unsettling time."
The school has invited affected families to contact its admissions team for confidential conversations regarding their educational options. Families seeking advice can reach the school at admissions@stfpewsey.co.uk.
Warminster School has also extended its support to those impacted by the announcement. A spokesperson for the school emphasised the personal nature of choosing an educational environment and offered a listening ear for those forced to navigate a sudden change in plans. The school has invited parents to get in touch to ask questions or arrange a personal visit to view their facilities.
The situation remains a developing matter for families in the region who have been left to secure new placements at short notice. Both St Francis and Warminster have positioned themselves as resources for those navigating the immediate period of transition.
Source: Wiltshire Times · View original