Bristol Steiner School saved from closure following ‘extraordinary’ exit out of administration
A Bristol independent school has been brought back from the brink of closure after a seven-month long community campaign to bring it out of administration, saving 25 local jobs and ensuring 80 pupils will maintain their school spot in September.
Established 50 years ago by parents and community supporters, Bristol Steiner School in Redland Hill offers holistic education that nurtures children’s critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills, guided by principles of inclusivity and community.
The school was placed into administration in December, after facing significant financial challenges. However, parents fought back against the closure with a remarkable campaign that garnered nearly £1 million in loans and donations, coupled with a robust transformation plan, building a case for its exit from administration.
"We are thrilled to announce that Bristol Steiner School has successfully exited administration," said Rowena Kennedy-Epstein, Co-Chair of Trustees.
"This achievement reflects the unwavering dedication and support of our community, whose generosity and commitment have been instrumental in securing our future."
Partner at law firm Shakespeare Martineau Gareth Hegarty, who led the exit on behalf of the school’s Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTFA), said: “A solvent exit from administration is truly extraordinary and is testament to the efforts of the local community to bring this school back from the brink. This is a great result for the school, it’s pupils and local area.”
This positive story nevertheless comes against a background of financial uncertainty in the education sector.
“Data shows that there was a 75 per cent increase in education organisations filing for administration in 2023 compared to the year previous, proving even universities, colleges and schools are not exempt from feeling the combined effects of the challenging financial climate,” added Gareth.
“Indeed, the pressures faced by independent schools, in particular, are likely to increase if the new Government proceeds with its policy to remove tax exemptions for private schools and introduce a 20% rate of VAT.”
Luke Wilson, restructuring advisory partner at FRP, which also played a key role in advising and assisting the PTFA in formulating its business proposal, said "This is a great outcome, and one that’s a testament to the power of open, honest discussion between stakeholders and the power of community. The result is saved jobs and clarity for staff, students and parents. We wish the school all the best for the future.”
"We know from speaking to parents across the city that an education that builds wellbeing and creativity alongside academic skills is badly needed in Bristol, and we are working to make it more accessible than ever," continued Rowena.
"We have moved to a sliding scale fee system and are pleased to now offer bursaries to families of African/Caribbean heritage, reflecting our commitment to diversity and accessibility."
In addition to financial reforms, Bristol Steiner School is investing in renovations to the building and garden spaces and working towards the establishment of a middle school, catering to students in Years 7, 8, and 9.
Newly appointed headteacher Angela Cogan said: "I feel privileged to be part of such an exciting time.
"The Steiner approach is very close to my heart, and I aim to safeguard everything we hold dear while ensuring children make the best progress possible."
