Historic Derbyshire private school saved from closure after parents rally to raise funds
S. Anselm’s in Bakewell, facing closure due to financial losses, has been saved by a successful parent-led fundraising campaign.
A Peak District private school once destined to shut down at the end of the summer term will now stay open, thanks to a major parent-led fundraising campaign—driven in part by local businesswoman Emma Harrison.
The governors of the 137-year-old S. Anselm’s in Bakewell had announced its closure in March, citing financial losses and new government tax pressures.
But on May 20, school leaders revealed a dramatic turnaround: enough funds had been raised and a restructuring plan was under way to secure its future, the Derbyshire Times reports.
Parent Matthew Brailsford, part of the rescue team, said rising costs like VAT, national insurance, and business rates had placed huge strain on private schools. “We’ve donated money, time and expertise to keep this exceptional school going,” he said. “Now we can build a new foundation for it to thrive.”
Emma Harrison, owner of Thornbridge Hall and now chair of the school’s trustees, called the news “massive,” saying the response from the community was filled with joy and emotion. “We’re determined to fulfil our mission: SA for everyone, forever.”
Going forward, fees will be reduced and new sponsorships introduced to make the school accessible to more local children, regardless of background. Harrison emphasized the life-changing impact of the school’s nurturing environment, based on her own family’s experience.
The school, which had merged with Sheffield’s Birkdale School in 2023, will return to independent operation. A family open day will be held on Friday, June 27, from 3:30–6:00pm, welcoming all interested families.
The rescue comes as the independent education sector faces pressure from new tax rules, including the addition of 20% VAT on fees and loss of business rates relief for schools operating as charities.
Despite predictions from the government that the changes would have minimal impact on enrolment, S. Anselm’s is one of several schools pushed to the brink. Thanks to community action, its story now offers a rare good news chapter.