By Islam El-Sakka
Leweston School, a Catholic boarding and day school near Sherborne in Dorset, has announced it will not reopen following the October half-term holiday. The school, which charged up to £14,990 per term for international boarders, gave no reason for the abrupt closure and apologised to pupils, families and staff for the short notice.
Sudden Closure Announced
The announcement was made on the school's website during the October break. "We are very sorry what this means for our pupils, their families and our staff, and for how little notice we have been able to give," the statement read. Families and staff were contacted directly, and every pupil has been offered a place from 2 November at schools within the Inspired Learning Group, including Clayesmore School and Sunninghill Prep, both about 19 miles away.
Financial Background
Founded in 1891 as St Anthony's, Leweston was sold to a subsidiary of Concept Education in December 2025. The same group operates the Marist School in Ascot, Berkshire. The school registered a loan from HSBC Bank in March 2026. Termly fees ranged from £7,909 for younger day pupils to £14,990 for international students with full boarding.
VAT Speculation
On social media, speculation has linked the closure to the Labour government's imposition of 20 per cent VAT on private school education and boarding fees, a policy that came into force last year. Leweston has not commented on the VAT changes and has limited discussion on its social media posts. The Independent has contacted Concept Education for comment.
Alumni Reaction
Former pupils expressed sadness online. Alumni include BAFTA-winning actor Kristin Scott Thomas and musician Zoë Schwarz. One former student wrote: "I have so many wonderful memories as a student. This is terrible news and my heart goes out to the teachers, students, nuns and community."
