Fresh hopes for historic Cumbrian school to reopen

Trustees at St Bees School say there are three possibilities that could reopen the independent school which controversially closed in July last year, after 432 years of education.

The trustees launched a nationwide search to find parties which could help determine the viability of a revival and, if possible, what form education would take.

Due diligence has also been carried out on the west Cumbrian school's finances.

The three options to be explored further are turning it into an independent school plus an independent international centre; an independent school coupled with an international centre, in the form of partnership; and the reopening of the school in partnership with an existing UK school.

An independent school specialist is being drafted in to examine the options closely and identify the best way forward.

A statement issued by the trustees said: "In order to re-establish a viable and sustainable school, minimum pupil numbers must be attained.

"It is therefore imperative that possible prospective parents express their interest."

Anyone who would be interested in sending their children to a new St Bees School can lodge their interest, without making any binding commitment, with the school office at any time.

They are also welcome to make their feelings known at a drop-in event at the business management centre on September 24.

The trustees add: "Re-establishing education at St Bees School will take some time and careful consideration.

"The strong support from so many directions gives us great encouragement and hope for the future."