The historic Exeter Cathedral School has taken the extremely difficult decision to close the Prep part of the school (years 3-8), ending almost 850 years of schooling at the Cathedral.
In a statement on their website they said:
Following unavoidable financial pressures that many small independent schools are currently facing, the Governors of Exeter Cathedral School have announced changes to the school from September 2026.
The school has taken the extremely difficult decision to close the Prep part of the school (years 3-8). It has agreed, subject to contract, for the Inspired Learning Group (ILG) to take over the running of the school’s Nursery and Pre Prep (up to year 2), from September 2026. As part of the arrangement, Hall House will work in close collaboration with Shebbear College, an established ILG through school, close to Okehampton, Devon.
By sharing this decision now, we hope to give families and colleagues the time they need to plan for alternative school placements in September.
We understand the impact this will have on our entire school community, our students and their families, as well as our dedicated staff and we are committed to working closely with everyone to provide guidance and support, including assistance with next steps for students and staff.
With the closure of Years 3 – 8, which include the Cathedral’s choristers, Exeter Cathedral has confirmed a new partnership with Exeter School from September, to ensure the choristers can continue their studies together, locally, and in a co-educational environment.
Exeter Cathedral School will remain open in its current form until the end of the summer term in July 2026, continuing to provide high-quality education and pastoral care throughout this period.
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