PARENTS and staff at Chard School were told at an emergency meeting on Monday night that a lack of money could cause its closure by the end of the 2014 spring term.

More than 100 people filled the school chapel at just 72 hours’ notice, when the board of governors revealed that the school was facing closure.

They told parents and staff that 14 extra pupils, in addition to the existing 94, would be needed to balance the books at the £1,800-a-term school.

Following the announcement, angry parents formed a steering committee to save the school under the leadership of Lindsay Rossiter.

Reflecting the emotion of other parents, she said: “Over my dead body will this school close.”

The parents have vowed to work together to ensure the school, which has served the Chard area since the time of King Charles II, remains open.

Their key aim is to focus on marketing the ‘hidden gem’ to make people aware of what is on offer.

One such parent, Lilias Ahmeira, said: “It achieved yet again ‘excellent’ in all aspects of pupil development and education from the Independent Schools Inspectorate in June this year. It is very rare to get ‘excellent’ across the board for teaching.

“The average class size is between ten and 12, so children get the attention they need and deserve to keep moving forward, yet its fees are considerably lower than other private schools in the area.

“The steering committee is now determined to ensure that this school is recognised nationally for its reputation and results, and is an independent school Chard can be proud of.”

It is believed teachers are so horrified by the governors’ proposal that they have offered to accept a pay cut.

They too are putting their heads together to find a solution.

To get in touch with the steering group, call 07775-875567.