Prep school to close at Exeter Cathedral

The oldest school in Exeter is to close due to "unavoidable financial pressures".

Exeter Cathedral School said it had taken the "extremely difficult decision" to close the prep part of the school, for years three to eight, from September 2026.

The 12th century school said it hoped to give families and colleagues the time they needed to plan for alternative school placements in September.

In a statement, the school said: "We understand the impact this will have on our entire school community, our students and their families, as well as our dedicated staff."

It continued: "We are committed to working closely with everyone to provide guidance and support, including assistance with next steps for students and staff."

On the website, the school said it was one of the oldest schools in Exeter with the earliest written reference dating back to 1179 when it was founded as The Chorister School.

It said it had been agreed, subject to contract, for Inspired Learning Group (ILG) to take over running its nursery and pre prep, up to year two, from September.

The school said an agreement had also been made with Exeter School to allow the cathedral's choristers to study there in future.

"With the closure of Years 3 – 8, which include the cathedral's choristers, Exeter Cathedral has confirmed a new partnership with Exeter School from September, to ensure the choristers can continue their studies together, locally, and in a co-educational environment," it said.

Exeter Cathedral School said it would remain open in its current form until the end of the summer term in July 2026 and continue to provide high-quality education and pastoral care throughout this period.

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