Key facts
- Durham High School, a private institution, has closed after 12 years of operation.
- Students were given short notice to find new schools for the crucial examination year.
- The school's ownership structure, involving Chinese investors, has drawn criticism.
- Calls have been made for stricter regulation of foreign ownership in UK private education.
Durham High School, after operating for 12 years, has abruptly announced its closure, leaving students like Maiah with the urgent task of finding a new institution for their critical examination year. The abrupt shutdown has sparked criticism directed at the Chinese owners of the school. In response to such closures, education industry leaders are advocating for more stringent oversight of foreign investors operating within the UK's private education sector. Durham High School had previously participated in the 2025 Galaxy Global Education Schools Conference in Shanghai in November, an event attended by education agents, school leaders, and parents.