Bungay High Sixth Form stopped admissions last September after only 19 students enrolled, which triggered a consultation over the future of its post-16 provision.

Following that process, the East Anglian Schools Trust's bid to scrap the sixth form based at Bungay High School has now been approved by the Department for Education.

The trust said: "This announcement comes with heavy hearts, as it marks the end of many years of excellent post-16 education in Bungay.

"Years in which countless young people have progressed to university, apprenticeships, training and successful careers, supported by the dedication of our staff and the strength of our school community.

Flashback to students celebrating their A-Level success at Bungay High Sixth Form (Image: Bruno Brown)

"We feel deep sadness at having to close our Sixth Form.

"We are deeply grateful for the understanding, engagement and support shown by staff, students, families and our wider community throughout this difficult process."

School leaders say numbers in Years 12 and 13 have been falling for several years, while alternative post-16 options across Suffolk and Norfolk have continued to expand.

The sixth form had previously offered a broad range of subjects to Year 12 pupils, including English, maths, science, history, drama, product design, languages, art and philosophy.

With the closure now confirmed, the trust said its focus will shift completely toward delivering secondary education for students in Years 7 to 11.

Former Bungay High A level students picking up their results. (Image: Nick Butcher)

It has committed to continue offering "strong, personalised guidance and advice" to help young people navigate their post-16 choices.

The trust also stressed that current Year 13 students will not be affected and will complete their education as planned.

Bungay High School became a high school in 1974, having originally been founded as Bungay Grammar School in 1565.

Its most recent Ofsted inspection in 2021 judged the school to be "good".

© Eastern Daily Press