Kirkham Grammar School acquired by international group

Kirkham Grammar School has been acquired by international education group Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Sanstha (MMYS), a global organisation that operates schools across Australia, the United States and India.

The group is led by academics, researchers and industry pioneers whose achievements span medicine, scientific research, engineering and innovation.

The School will operate through Kirkham Grammar International School Limited, established by MMYS to provide effective governance, long-term sustainability and continued educational excellence.

The school says it will continue to honour its traditions, academic standards and  pastoral care whil benefiting from sustained investment in educational facilities, boarding provision, sporting infrastructure, digital learning, staff development and international collaboration.

Pupils will benefit from enhanced global connections, cultural exchange opportunities and access to a wider educational network, creating exciting opportunities in areas such as STEM, engineering, innovation and future-focused learning.

The new owners will seek to build on the school's 476-year heritage, and are committed to working closely with the existing leadership team, recognising their experience, dedication and deep understanding of the school’s traditions.

Head of Kirkham Grammar School Kirsten O’Donoghue said: “This is a very positive and exciting moment for Kirkham Grammar School. As both head and a former pupil, I know how special this school is and how deeply it is valued.

"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."

A spokesperson for MMYS 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. We are equally delighted that the school’s experienced senior leadership team will continue to lead the School, providing continuity and confidence for pupils, parents and staff.

"Together, we look forward to building upon Kirkham Grammar School’s remarkable legacy through educational excellence, innovation, global collaboration and values-based education, ensuring that every pupil is equipped to excel academically and contribute positively to society.”