Kirkham Grammar School has been acquired by an international education organisation in a move leaders say will secure the long-term future of the historic independent school.
The respected Fylde school, which traces its roots back 476 years, has been taken over by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Sanstha (MMYS), an educational group which operates schools in Australia, the United States and India.
The school, which charges £6,600 a term, will now operate through Kirkham Grammar International School Limited, a new entity established by MMYS, with the current senior leadership team remaining in place.
School leaders say the acquisition will bring significant investment in facilities, boarding provision, sport, digital learning and staff development, while also creating new opportunities for international collaboration and cultural exchange.
Headteacher Kirsten O'Donoghue described the deal as "a very positive and exciting moment" for the school.
Mrs O'Donoghue, who is also a former pupil, said: "Kirkham Grammar School has a proud history and an outstanding reputation.
"This new chapter will protect everything that makes our school special while strengthening the pupil experience through long-term investment, pastoral care, wellbeing, whole child development and international opportunity.
"Myself and the Senior Leadership Team look forward to helping pupils achieve excellence while developing the respect, kindness, resilience and personal qualities they need to flourish."
MMYS said it planned to preserve the school's traditions while supporting future growth and investment.
A spokesperson for the organisation said: "Kirkham Grammar School possesses an extraordinary heritage built over nearly five centuries.
"It is a privilege for MMYS to become the steward of such a remarkable institution.
"We are committed to preserving the school's traditions while supporting its future growth, investing in its educational environment, nurturing every pupil and supporting its dedicated staff."
The acquisition follows an extensive review of the school's financial position by governors.
Chair of Governors Paul Ribchester said mounting financial pressures had made the previous ownership model unsustainable.
He said: "A combination of factors had made continued operation under the previous ownership structure unsustainable.
"These included sustained inflationary pressures and rising operating costs, significant increases in employer National Insurance contributions, and the introduction of VAT on independent school fees.
"In order to thrive, independent schools must evolve, and despite sector-wide challenges, the future of our school is bright.
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"This acquisition is a positive outcome that preserves the educational purpose of Kirkham Grammar School."
The school said pupils would benefit from access to a wider international educational network, particularly in areas including STEM, engineering and innovation.
A series of new educational initiatives is expected to be introduced from September 2026.
Kirkham Grammar School educates children aged two to 18 and says the new owners are committed to working closely with the existing leadership team to ensure continuity for pupils, parents and staff.
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