Immanuel College, known for its academic excellence, was recognized as the country’s top-performing Jewish school by the Times. However, the school has faced increasing challenges in recent years, including a significant decline in pupil numbers and financial difficulties. The current Year 7 cohort consists of only 35 pupils, generating revenue equivalent to just 18 full fee-paying places due to fee remissions. This stark reality has contributed to the decision to cease operations.

The school charges annual fees of £29,718, inclusive of VAT, which has also added financial strain. The introduction of VAT on independent school fees has been particularly detrimental, as highlighted by Levy, who remarked, “The introduction of VAT on independent school fees has added further strain to an already challenged sector.” With the school’s most recent accounts revealing losses of £2 million, the governors cited these financial pressures and dwindling enrollment as key reasons for the closure.

Currently, Immanuel College employs 158 staff members across various roles, all of whom will be affected by this closure. The decision comes amid a broader trend, as more than 100 independent schools have announced plans to close since January 2025, reflecting a challenging landscape for private education in the UK.

Oliver Dowden, a prominent political figure, expressed his sadness regarding the closure, stating, “I am very sad to learn of the closure of the brilliant Immanuel College.” This sentiment resonates with many in the community who have come to value the school’s contributions to education and Jewish culture over the decades.

As the school prepares for its final days, Levy emphasized the importance of supporting the students, families, and staff through this transition. “The focus now is on supporting our pupils, families and staff through this transition with compassion, clarity and integrity,” he stated, underscoring the commitment to ensuring that the community is cared for during this difficult time.

Immanuel College’s closure is not just a loss for the institution itself but also a significant moment for the Jewish educational landscape in the UK. As the community grapples with this change, the impact of the closure will be felt for years to come, as families seek new educational opportunities for their children in an increasingly challenging environment.

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Hill was previously jailed for 20 weeks in August 2024 for harassing a female colleague and was sentenced again in January 2025 for breaching a restraining order, receiving a six-month jail term. His actions have been described as creating an unsafe environment for both children and staff at Howard Junior School.

Bridget Phillipson, the Secretary of State for Education, stated, “In the opinion of the Secretary of State, these relevant convictions and this relevant conduct make Mr Hill unsuitable to take part in the management of an independent school.” She further emphasized that Hill had engaged in conduct that failed to adhere to statutory safeguarding procedures.

Hill’s tenure at Howard Junior School ended amid controversy, with his arrest occurring in front of parents and pupils in March 2023. His dual role as chief executive of the Apollo Academies Trust has also come under scrutiny due to his conduct.

On April 13, 2026, Hill was officially added to the Department for Education’s list of individuals barred from running schools, marking a significant step in addressing the concerns surrounding his management practices.

Observers note that this ban is part of a broader effort to ensure that educational environments remain safe and conducive to learning. The implications of Hill’s ban may extend beyond his personal career, affecting the reputation of the institutions he previously managed.

Hill has three months to appeal the ruling, but the path forward appears challenging given the severity of his convictions. The educational community will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what measures will be implemented to prevent similar cases in the future.

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