A private school in Stoke-on-Trent has announced it will close for good at the end of the year - ahead of VAT changes.

St Joseph's Preparatory School, in Trent Vale, will close for good on 31 December.

This comes after the government announced that 20 per cent VAT would be imposed on private school fees from 1 January 2025.

A statement from the school says: "It is with great regret, that the Trustees of St. Joseph's Preparatory School have taken the decision that the school should not remain open after the 31st December 2024. 

"In making their decision the Trustees have focused on the varied financial challenges, which the school community has faced in recent years, and the changes coming regarding independent school funding. This has been an incredibly difficult decision and one not taken lightly.

"The Trustees would wish to acknowledge the commitment of parents, governors and staff of St Joseph's Prep and would wish to thank all those involved who have served and committed their time, in the interests of ensuring the children have received an excellent education. 



20% VAT will be imposed on private school fees from 1 January 2025 (St Joseph's Preparatory School).

"The Trustees will work with the Governors and staff to bring this decision into effect in a manner that causes the least possible negative impact, particularly for the children who will require new school places, as a result of this decision.

"Our prayers are with everybody at this heartbreaking time."

The school is inviting all current parents to a meeting at the school tonight (4 September) at 6.30pm.

On Facebook, Headmaster Mr Hood wrote: "To all of you who entrusted your children's care to us through the years, on behalf of all the staff, I would like to say what an absolute privilege it has been.

"The children have always been at the very heart of our school family and every single one of them has been a unique blessing and part of the beautiful tapestry that has been St Joseph's Prep.

"Whilst a piece of my heart will forever be missing, I hope you will all forever carry a piece of St Joseph's in yours, wherever life leads."

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