An independent school in Bangor has confirmed it will close for good this summer.

Management and trustees at St Gerard's have blamed financial pressures, including the impact of VAT on school fees, for their decision to shut after more than a century.

Around a hundred pupils will leave the school on Friddoedd Road for the last time when it closes on Friday 3rd July, at the end of the academic year.

In a statement, headteacher Campbell Harrison said the decision had only been reached "after exhausting every possible avenue" to keep the school open "in the face of growing challenges within the independent education sector".

The school intends to conitnue its lessons, trips and clubs as planned following the half-term break, as well as providing support to pupils ahead of its closure - with a farewell event taking place on Thursday 2nd July.

Mr Harrison said: "For generations, St Gerard’s has been far more than a school. It has been a close, nurturing community at the heart of Bangor and North Wales, shaping the lives of countless young people and families over more than a century."

"However, in recent years, financial pressures have grown significantly, including the impact of VAT on school fees, making it impossible to continue."

"Our immediate focus is on supporting our pupils, parents, staff and the wider school community during this incredibly difficult time. We understand the deep sense of loss this news brings, and we are committed to supporting everyone with compassion, care and openness in the weeks ahead."

"We are immensely proud of our history, our values and everything we have achieved together. St Gerard’s has always been a place where learning, friendships and aspirations have flourished. Our alumni are a testament to this, with many going on to achieve great success while carrying with them fond memories and experiences formed here."

St Gerard's was set up by the Sisters of Mercy in 1915 with just two pupils, initially based from a rented house in nearby Craig-y-Don Road.

It moved into its current home in 1919 having been purchased by the Sisters, following the death of Lord Penrhyn, with extensions added over the years.

The Sisters finally withdrew from independent education in 1990, leading to a Trust being established to keep the school open to the present day.

As of May 2026, the school has been charging fees per term ranging from £3,884 for reception and infant pupils to £5,936 for pupils in years 10 to 13.