School co

A private school in Moray co-founded by Oscar-winning actress Tilda Swinton is to close amid financial pressures, it has been announced.

Drumduan School has been based near Forres for 40 years.

It focused on more alternative, practical learning, rather than pupils sitting tests or even using desks.

However, the trustees said its kindergarten would finish at the end of the academic year on 30 June after a review of "financial sustainability", following the earlier closure of its upper and lower school provision.

In February, a legal challenge by a group of private schools over the UK government's decision to remove the VAT exemption on the fees they charge was dismissed by the Court of Appeal.

BBC Scotland News visited the school in 2017, when tai chi-style exercise was the first class of the day, while the teaching of science could involve canoe building or cooking.

As little time as possible was spent in the classroom.

Swinton watched her own twin children perform at their last class concert.

The actress won an Oscar for her role in Michael Clayton, and has also appeared in films including Grand Budapest Hotel and Marvel movies such as Doctor Strange and Avengers: Endgame.

In a statement on the school website, trustees said they had made the "very sad" decision to close the kindergarten provision.

"This decision follows a careful review of financial sustainability and reflects the trustees' responsibilities to govern Drumduan," it said.

"Despite sustained efforts to secure alternative funding, we have not been able to establish the financial foundations necessary to continue. It was not a decision taken lightly.

"Staff and families are being supported throughout the transition process, with access to individual conversations and guidance on next steps."

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The statement added: "We wish to place on record our immense gratitude to the kindergarten staff, whose dedication, creativity and care for our children has been wonderful in these challenging times.

"The trustees would like to express their sincere gratitude to the many families, staff, friends and supporters - past and present - who have contributed to the life of Drumduan over its 40 years.

"It is comforting to know the children who have been part of our community carry with them their learning, the wonder and creativity nurtured in their early years, and the human connections formed during their time at Drumduan."

The lower school closed in February, followed by the upper school in March.

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