May 07, 2026 - 168 views
Two leading independent schools in North Wales are to merge in a move aimed at creating a “sustainable future for younger pupils”.
Fast-growing Myddelton College will welcome pupils from historic Fairholme Preparatory School from September as the two schools officially join forces.
The newly combined prep school will be known as Myddelton-Fairholme Preparatory School and will be based at Myddelton College’s Peake’s Lane campus in Denbigh, around six miles from St Asaph.
Myddelton College Headteacher Lucy Davies described the merger as an “exciting new chapter” for independent preparatory education in the region.
She said the move reflected “continuity of ethos and a shared commitment to an ambitious, sustainable future for younger pupils”.
Mrs Davies said a major focus had been placed on ensuring a “smooth and reassuring” transition for pupils, staff and parents, with the schools working together to preserve existing relationships and classroom continuity.
Fairholme School was founded in 1900 in Denbigh and has been led since 2009 by Headteacher Elizabeth Perkins, who took over the school with her late husband Stephen.
To help families prepare for the changes, the two schools are running a programme of “Together Days” and buddy support sessions throughout the summer term.
Mrs Davies said: “Fairholme has long been seen as North Wales’s foremost independent preparatory school and is known for its warmth, strong academic performance and deeply supportive community.
“Myddelton College, one of the region’s fastest-growing and foremost independent schools, is proud to build on these foundations.
“At a time when the independent sector faces significant pressures, this announcement represents a confident step forward which brings together two schools with a shared belief in providing children with the very best start in life, via strong pastoral care and academic excellence.”
She added that combining the schools’ “expertise, experience and resources” would create an enriched educational experience while maintaining the close-knit and nurturing environment valued by families.
“For Fairholme this marks a respectful and positive continuation of its legacy while for Myddelton it represents measured growth and long-term commitment to the sector,” she said.
“We are committed to ensuring that Myddelton-Fairholme Preparatory School offers something genuinely distinctive for children and families.”
Parents at both schools were informed of the changes this week.
Mrs Perkins said the decision to merge had been “deeply personal”.
“My late husband and I devoted many years to Fairholme and after his passing I remained committed to preserving everything that has made the school so special,” she said.
“As I prepare for retirement, my priority has been to secure the very best future for our children, staff and families.
“I am incredibly proud of all that Fairholme has stood for, and I am reassured and delighted that its next chapter will be with Myddelton College.”
