Eastbourne school closure ‘a huge loss for the town’ – your memories

Roedean Moira House announced this week it will close its doors at the end of the 2020 summer term.

The private girls’ school in Upper Carlisle Road cited financial difficulties as the reason behind its decision, and called it a ‘very sad day’.

Readers took to the Eastbourne Herald Facebook page to share their thoughts and opinions on the closure.

Former pupil Serree Di Rico said, “I am so incredibly sad to hear this news. I was there from 1975-1980 and I have the most wonderful memories. I just can’t believe it.”

Eastbourne school releases statement over closure

While Lynda Sorrell-Fleet said, “Incredibly sad...very fond memories of the school, staff and pupils. A huge loss to the town.”

Cathy Parry called it the ‘best school and teaching staff ever’ and Cassie Philip just said it was ‘so very, very sad’.

However, others were not surprised by the news. Laura Pople said she saw it coming.

“Both my girls went through nursery here and it was brilliant for them,” she said, “However year on year the fees got beyond extortionate. It was just a matter of time but it’s still very sad.”

Becky Diane said, “Moira hasn’t just been a private school it’s a family that it doesn’t matter whether your past or present, everyone will all have been touched by the school and helped shaped who they are.

“For me, I went there because, as I know now, I would not have coped going right the way through the state sector. Smaller class sizes helped me to make friends and able to learn more effectively.

“I appreciate more now how my life could have been very different if I hadn’t had the privileges the school allowed me to experience.

“I would like to thank all the teachers and think the teachers who are no longer with us would be proud of all the girls and also sad the school can’t continue the great work.

“Currently I work in a state school and I want to in the future use my experiences of a good education and help those children in need flourish.”

Roedean Moira House has been a part of Eastbourne since 1888.

It became part of the Roedean school group in 2017 due to struggling finances.

The school said staff are ‘at risk’ of redundancy following news of its closure.

If you have any photos or memories you would like to share with us of Moira House, email [email protected]