Bridget Phillipson slammed as famous UK school closes | UK | News

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

A social media user criticized Ms Phillipson, the Secretary of State for Education, claiming this was what she wanted. He had 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 Labor government also ended the 80% business rates discount private schools previously received due to their charity status. Ms Phillipson argued the measures were a way to raise revenue for public schools and teacher recruitment.

Responding to Durham High School’s closure announcement on

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

An account called the Artemis Security group wrote: “Absolutely disgusting. I hope someone sues the Labor government for ‘human rights’ and wins.”

Another named Jings, Crivvens, added: “He despises wealth unless he benefits personally.” Cher said: “What a vindictive woman, she’s ruining lives.”

Red Carpet Fever said: “Heartbreaking. What a toxic, twisted policy. Pure jealousy.” Deborah Ramsey agrees: “Workers disagree with private schools, they send their children to private schools. Do as we say, not as we do. They are vindictive, evil people.”

Meanwhile, Rajiv Dhir asked: “Can someone tell me how many new private schools have opened in the last 12 months? Bridget Philipson claims that a large number of new schools have opened. I want to know the number.”

It was revealed that the school has a £1.07 million deficit in its 2024 financial accounts. In order to stabilize the financial situation, it sought to switch from a girls-only format to a co-educational structure where boys are admitted in September 2024.

But the school’s parent company suddenly announced its permanent closure just days before the end of the academic year. Families and staff were given little information about finding alternative education for September.

While some critics may blame Ms Phillipson for the closure, Durham City Labor MP Mary Kelly Foy and some parents accused the Chinese owners of plundering their assets. They claimed that Galaxy Global rejected suggestions to improve records and failed to deliver on promised investments.

Like other private schools in the UK, Durham High School has faced increasing financial pressures following the removal of its charity status. Also hit was the 20% VAT on wages, rising employment costs and the removal of business rates relief.

The school thanked its students, staff and parents for their support over the years. They said it was “very sad” that the owners had closed the school.

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

“During this time, a large number of young people were given the best education, not only in terms of learning the texts they were taught, but also in terms of the determination, resilience and desire instilled in them to shape a better world.

“You know when you meet a Durham High School graduate that distinguishes a Durham High School education from the efforts of our graduates who are paving the way in the sciences and arts and making a difference in every corner of the world.

“Today we are writing the last page of this incredible history. This is a very sad chapter because the school owners are closing the school at the end of this term.

“As our current 281 students, we are deeply saddened that you will not have the opportunity to reach the end of your journey at this truly special school. Move forward with your strengths and the values ​​you embody to make a difference in this next chapter.

“To our talented and dedicated staff, know that the time you devote to sharing your joy of learning with our students provides them with the greatest foundation for life.

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