Moorlands private school in Leeds closes today after 128 years - full story

Moorlands School, located on Foxhill Drive, Weetwood, previously announced plans to close for good at the end of the Autumn Term, on December 31, 2025.

The news was exclusively broken by the YEP in June, after confirmation from Trustees of the Methodist Independent Schools Trust (MIST).

It was the second historic Leeds private school to announce its closure, but what happened? Read on below for the full story...

How long has Moorlands been in Leeds?

Today’s closure marks the end of an era for the historic school, first opening in 1897, Moorlands is one of the oldest prep school in Leeds, and the second to announces its closure in recent months after Fulneck School closed for good from Tuesday, July 8.

MIST Trustees confirmed in a statement that the “extremely difficult decision” comes following a “period of careful reflection and a thorough review of the school’s financial viability.”

Why was the decision made?

A full statement by MIST Trustees said: “The introduction of VAT on school fees, alongside a decline in enquiries and registrations, the withdrawal of charitable relief on business rates, increases in employer national insurance contributions, the limited ability of a small school to reduce fixed costs, and the rising budgets required for the upkeep of the school site and buildings, have sadly all contributed to an unsustainable financial position.

“The decision is not a reflection of the excellent care and quality of education offered by Moorlands’ staff, nor the tireless efforts of the School’s key staff and local Governing Body to secure a sustainable future for the school.”

How has the VAT changes impacted the school?

From January 1, 2025, private schools in the UK are required to charge VAT (Value Added Tax) at the standard rate of 20% on all education and boarding services provided for a fee. They were previously exempt.

The Government has estimated that the change will raise £460 million next year, and £1.7 billion by 2030. The Chancellor said the funds would be used to benefit state education.

What have Moorlands parents said?

In an open letter, parents at the school previously expressed their “deep concern and profound disappointment” at the way the closure was managed. The approach taken left many with a strong feeling that the “needs of our children and the Moorlands community were not prioritised.”

It read: “The sudden closure of the school, with limited communication and no genuine consultation with parents or stakeholders, feels less like a last resort and more like a predetermined outcome. We note with dismay the absence of any public exploration of alternative solutions, be that partnership with third-party operators.”

What have YEP readers?

Taking to Facebook, Roger Tate said: “A very sad day. I had sons and grandchildren at the school. They all loved the school but business of all kinds cannot just absorb all these extra costs.” Heli Beth Blakeney said: “Oh no! What a tragedy. This is such an amazing school.”

Vanessa White said: “My daughter went swimming here on a Friday for lessons. Such a shame! Lovely school.” Tim Vickers added: “This probably hasn't just come about because of the tax changes. Religious communities involved in both closures, probably already in financial difficulties and needed the sale money.”

What support will children and families be offered?

In June, MIST Trustees pledged to work together with key staff and School Governors, to ensure education and activities continue uninterrupted until the end of the Autumn Term, and that the school would liaise closely with each family to help secure the best possible next steps for their children.

The statement added: “We are deeply grateful to all those who have contributed to Moorlands over the years - pupils past and present, families, staff and the wider community. Moorlands has been a special place of learning, growth, and community.”

What has Leeds City Council said?

Council officials previously pledged their “full support in line with our admission policies” to any families wishing to apply to a state-funded school in Leeds following the closures of both Fulneck and Moorlands.

An authority spokesperson said: “Local authorities have a limited role in the independent school sector, however for families wishing to apply to a state-funded school in Leeds, we will provide full support in line with our admission policies.”