I Wonder What The Final Straw Was? - But Then - I Think I Can Probably Guess.

Private schools shut after decade-long cash struggle.

Two independent Catholic schools in Derbyshire have closed after the trust that runs them went into administration.

Mount St Mary's College in Spinkhill and its prep school, Barlborough Hall School, announced the "immediate closure" on Wednesday.

Shaun Whyman, chair of governors of the charitable trust, said on the schools' website they had faced "increasing financial pressures" since 2015.

"This decision has not been made lightly, and we understand the shock and distress this news will undoubtedly bring to our entire school community," he added.

The schools were founded 183 years ago and became an independent charitable trust in 2004.

Following years of financial strain, the schools were supported by the Jesuits in Britain charity, which provided more than £3m in loans to the trust, Mr Whyman said.

He added that governors and senior leaders had been working to prevent the closure of the schools since early 2025, including looking for a new owner, but were unsuccessful.

Blogger: Well Done KEIR! Pats on the back too for all of your MP bigots!