Abberley Hall School has closed for the final time

Abberley Hall School closed on Saturday (July 1) despite a £1million bid to save it.

The prep school, which was named Tatler School of the Year last September, had been part of the Malvern College Family of Schools since 2019.

But Malvern College announced in February it was withdrawing its financial support, saying Abberley Hall has suffered “significant losses” in recent years.

Cricket matches involving pupils, OAs and parents took place at the end of June (Image: Jonathan West)

A group of parents, ex-pupils and teachers raised more than a million pounds in a bid to save the school but were unable to keep it going as an independent school.

To mark the school’s end, a cricket match between the school and a team of OAs - Old Abberley pupils - took place on Tuesday, June 27.

Former pupils from across the years gathered to picnic together, tour the school to say their own farewell, view an exhibition of events of former years, and share stories of their school exploits with their peers.  

A service at Worcester Cathedral was held to mark the school's closing (Image: Jonathan West)

That evening a Thanksgiving Service organised by the Abberley Hall Foundation was held at Worcester Cathedral conducted by the Bishop of Worcester, followed by a reception in the Chapter House.

Pupils, their families, staff past and present, one former headmaster, representatives of former headmasters, governors and many OAs were present.

READ MORE: Abberley Hall School will close despite £1m bid to save it

Headmaster Jonnie Besley said: “The end of the summer term is always busy but being the last-ever week of Abberley Hall, it was even busier.

“This was the end of 150 years of history. People love the school and people are very sad.

“We’ve had a lot of tears from parents, children and staff but the thing I’m most proud of is that it would have been very easy to get depressed and give up - but we didn’t.

“The pupils continued to receive excellent teaching and care, did their normal events and trips, and we had great exam results.

“The teachers gave 110% up until the very last minute. And my message to the children was that it is sad, but they will remember Abberley Hall for the rest of their lives.

“They can be grateful for their time here but now it’s time for new adventures. I’m very proud of everyone.”