THE governors at an independent girls' school in Somerset have decided it will close at the end of this term due to falling pupil numbers.

They have confirmed that Bruton School for Girls will not re-open for the next academic year starting in September.

The school, which celebrated its centenary in 2001, caters for girls aged nine to 18 and has also run a nursery and prep section.

A note to parents from King's Foundation headmaster Ian Wilmhurst informed them of the impending "permanent closure".

It said: "The governors have today confirmed that Bruton School for Girls (BSG) will permanently close at the end of this academic year.

"This is very sad news after the optimism surrounding BSG joining the King's Foundation earlier this year, when 114 pupils were expected at BSG in September 2022.

"Unfortunately, this optimism has not translated into pupil retention, let alone further pupil growth.

"The projected starting pupil roll at BSG for September 2022 is 45 pupils in total, spread across all nine year groups, and the Governors have unanimously concluded that this low pupil roll is not educationally or economically viable."

Mr Wilmhurst added: "Importantly, there will be no change to the future location, structure, staffing of either King's Bruton or Hazelgrove. There will also be no change to the BSG nursery, which will remain open.

"All current BSG pupils will be supported through their exams, and all activities this term will take place as programmed.

"Focus will now be on supporting all the girls and staff at BSG over the coming weeks."