Historic West Sussex public school for sale - in photos

Sompting Abbotts Preparatory School, in Church Lane, announced its closure in July, citing ‘financial pressures’ as the reason.

At the time, a spokesperson for the school said: "We have explored numerous options to keep the school open in September but financial pressures have become too great, including the introduction of VAT on school fees and the general economic climate.

"We know that we have provided our pupils with an excellent rounded education over many years and we wish our pupils the very best in the future.”

The school, which was founded in 1921, has now been placed on the market for the first time in more than 80 years.

The 27.77 acre site comprises a Neo-Gothic style Grade-II listed school building, ancillary educational accommodation, two residential houses, a former stable block, a swimming pool, tennis courts and playing fields.

It is being marketed by Hilco Global’s real estate team.

The company’s director, Anthony Hart, said: “These estates are of a scale and quality that make them highly attractive for a range of potential buyers. They offer clear opportunities for continued educational use, but their size, setting and heritage also mean there is potential for alternative use, subject to planning and heritage considerations.

"Our role is to ensure that all credible options are explored through a transparent and comprehensive marketing process.”

Hilco’s brochure said the scale and character of the estate ‘provides an exciting opportunity’ for either continued educational or institutional use, or a comprehensive conversion and redevelopment scheme. The company said it is inviting offers for the site as a whole.

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