Over £90,000 has so far been raised to save a Cumbrian independent school.
Hunter Hall in Penrith issued an SOS on Wednesday when it revealed that unless it raised £180,000 by next Wednesday, December 3, it would be forced to close its doors at the end of term.
Around £60,000 was raised in 24 hours and today, Saturday November 29, the total stands at £92,845.
Hunter Hall said it was a victim of the Government’s addition of VAT to school fees and governors had been exploring all options to secure the school’s future.
Despite significant cost-saving measures implemented over the past year, including negotiated rent reductions and staff voluntarily accepting a 7.5% salary reduction, several anticipated savings had not materialised, the school said.
As a result, the school was facing a larger than expected deficit for the 2025-2026 financial year, it added.
It currently has 79 pupils aged three to 11 years old and opened its doors in 1986. It employs 20 staff.
Donations can be made via the school’s official Crowdfunder page.
