Investigation Launched into Missing Accounts at Prestigious £20,000-a-Year Scots Catholic School
Fernhill School, a well-known Catholic institution in Rutherglen, South Lanarkshire, is under investigation due to concerns regarding its financial accountability and governance. The Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) is conducting this inquiry, focusing on missing accounts and the management of the charity.
Investigation Details
The OSCR has raised alarms over Fernhill’s failure to submit necessary financial documentation. Since 2021, the school has not provided accounts, submitting only unaudited dormant company accounts to Companies House without adequate explanation. This lack of transparency could point to serious misconduct in administration.
Key Findings
- The school has been a registered charity since 1975.
- No financial accounts have been filed with the OSCR since 2021.
- Submission of unexplained company accounts occurred over the last two years.
- OSCR is investigating potential breaches of trustee duties.
The OSCR asserts that the trustees of Fernhill School have not acted in the best interests of the charity, which may lead to allegations of misconduct. As part of the inquiry, the OSCR has directed the school to provide vital financial information to ensure proper governance.
Background of Fernhill School
Founded in 1953 by the Sisters of Notre Dame, Fernhill School aims to offer a comprehensive education for students aged three to eighteen. It prides itself on academic excellence and personal development, charging fees that can exceed £20,000 annually for senior students. The institution provides a dedicated sixth form and has nursery places available.
Recent Assessment
In its latest inspection conducted in 2024, the school received “very good” ratings across all evaluated areas, showcasing its reputation in the educational sector.
The OSCR intends to collaborate with Fernhill School’s trustees throughout the inquiry, seeking to clarify the financial situation and governance practices within the charity. The situation remains critical as the investigation progresses.
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