Two schools are “coordinating efforts” to support students who will be impacted when one of them closes at the end of the current term.
Elizabeth Laffeaty-Sharpe, the principal of Downham Market Preparatory School in West Norfolk, confirmed late last month that it will close for good in July.
The closure has once again thrown a shortage of childcare places in the town into the limelight - and there are fears that things could get even worse if the adjoining Montessori Nursery shuts down too.
However, it has now been confirmed that Wisbech Grammar School - located roughly 14 miles and a half hour drive from Downham Prep - is stepping in to help youngsters who will be in need of a spot elsewhere.
A spokesperson for the Wisbech school said: “We are working closely with Downham Prep and our school is dedicated to assisting those affected by this closure.
“We are coordinating efforts to provide families with opportunities to visit us in session and interested parties were invited to a recent Year 5 focused academic morning. We are doing all that we can to support families and will ensure any required transition is as smooth as possible.
“It is our utmost priority to ensure that each child continues to receive the quality education they deserve and that the spirit of community and learning carries on unwaveringly.”
Wisbech Grammar is one of the oldest academically selective schools in the country, having been founded in 1379.
It currently has two international boarding houses, offering pupils from overseas the opportunity to study at the school.
Downham Prep is also academically selective, but Ms Laffeaty-Sharpe said concerns about a Labour government introducing a 20% tax on private school fees has contributed to her need to shut down.
The Wisbech Grammar spokesperson added: “We are deeply saddened by the closure of Downham Prep School, an important part of the Downham community for many years.
“This loss is profoundly felt by all of us in the Wisbech Grammar community and we extend our heartfelt thoughts to the pupils, parents, and staff during this challenging time.”
