Bridget Phillipson slammed as famous UK school forced to close after 142 years

Bridget Phillipson has been slammed after a prestigious UK school was forced to close on Wednesday (July 1). Durham High School, which was founded with just 11 pupils in 1884, shut after its owners, the Chinese-owned Galaxy Global Education Group, put it into administration due to its financial instability.

A social media user has now slammed Ms Phillipson, the Secretary of State for Education, claiming it is what she wanted. She previously introduced major new taxes and regulatory changes for private schools. Since January 1, 2025, private schools are no longer exempt from the standard 20% VAT on school fees. The Labour government also ended the 80% business rates relief that private schools previously received due to their status as charities. Ms Phillipson defended the measures as a way to raise revenue for state schools and teacher recruitment.

Replying to Durham High School’s closure announcement on X, Alex Deane said: “Congratulations, Bridget Phillipson. No doubt this is just ‘chattering’ as you put it, but it’s what you wanted, so… bravo.”

George added: “Along with umpteen others. An absolute disgrace. What a terrible legacy. The 6k+ a year each child costs the mainstream sector represents more than the VAT grab. Wait until she realises that a high percentage will need an EHCP in mainstream.”

An account named Artemis Security group wrote: “Absolutely disgusting. I hope some one sues the Labour govt over ‘human rights’ and wins.”

Another, named Jings, crivvens, added: “She despises wealth, unless she’s personally benefitting from it.” Cher put: “What a spiteful woman, ruining lives.”

Red Carpet Fever said: “Heartbreaking. Such a poisonous, twisted policy. Sheer envy.” Deborah Ramsey agreed: “Labour don’t agree with private schools, but send their kids to private schools. Do as we say, not as we do. They are spiteful, nasty people.”

Meanwhile, Rajiv Dhir asked: “Can someone tell me – how many new private schools have opened in the last 12 months? Bridget Philipson claims there have been many. I would like to know the number.”

The school revealed a £1.07 million deficit in its 2024 financial accounts. In a bid to stabilise finances, it then tried to shift from a girls-only format to a co-educational structure admitting boys in September 2024.

However, the school’s parent company suddenly announced the permanent closure just days before the end of the academic year. It gave families and staff little notice to find alternative education for September.

While some critics may blame Ms Phillipson for the closure, Mary Kelly Foy, Labour MP for the City of Durham, and some parents accused the Chinese owners of asset-stripping. They claimed Galaxy Global rejected proposals to improve enrolment and failed to deliver promised investments.

Like other private schools across the UK, Durham High School faced increasing financial pressures following the removal of its charitable status. It was also hit by the 20% VAT on fees, rising employment costs and the removal of business rates relief.

The school has thanked their pupils, staff and parents for all of their support over the years. They said it was “terribly sad” that the owners are closing the school.

Durham High School posted on social media on Wednesday (July 1): “For 142 proud years, Durham High School has stood solidly as a beacon of hope for girls who were once denied the education enjoyed by their male counterparts.

“During this time, countless of scores of young people have been afforded the best of educations, not just in the learnings of the texts they were taught but in the determination, resilience and aspiration instilled in them to shape a better world.

“The hallmark of a Durham High School education is writ large in the endeavours of our alumni who paved the way in the fields of science and the arts, and they have made a difference in every corner of the globe. You know when you have met a Durham High alumnus.

“Today, we write the last chapter in this incredible history. It is a terribly sad chapter as our owners are closing the school at the end of this term.

“To the 281 current pupils, we are deeply sorry you will not have the chance to reach the end of your journey in this truly special school. Go with strength and the values you embody to make a difference in your next chapter.

“To our talented and deeply committed staff, know that the time you have invested in sharing your joy of learning with our pupils has given them the greatest foundation for life.

“To our parents, thank you for being so caring and compassionate in your love of Durham High and your engagement in our wonderful school community.”