Reading independent school to close after 165 years

An independent Berkshire school has announced it will close after 165 years due to a lack of pupils.

Hemdean House School, a primary school in Caversham, Reading, will close on 12 July.

The school, where fees are £3,990 a term, said "ever-falling numbers and few prospective pupils" meant it was no longer a sustainable business.

Head teacher Helen Chalmers said she would work with parents to help find pupils new schools ahead of September.

In a statement on its website, the school said the closure announcement came "with a very heavy heart".

It said: "We appreciate that this news is a shock for you all - and as individual families you will decide when is best for your children to be informed."

The school said the senior leadership team would be talking to all the children, giving them the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts.

The statement added: "Mrs Chalmers and the governing body offer you our full support and deepest regret."

Hemdean House School was established in 1859.

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