Drama school to close despite successful campaign

Drama school READ College has announced that it will close at the end of the academic year, despite reaching a fundraising target to keep it open.

The Reading-based performing arts college did not specify the reason for its closure at the end of the academic year but has previously detailed financial stuggles due to increased running costs, the impact of the pandemic and its inability to host international students.

It said that it needed to raise £40,000 to stay open, a target met successfully in December. However, despite the fundraising drive it announced the upcoming closure on Twitter.

“We are heartbroken to have to make this announcement. We will be making the most of our time together as we focus on concluding the academic year,” the tweet said.

A statement added that the college’s current priority is “supporting our staff and students through this difficult transition”.