The governors of a school being closed because of the recession have said they are “deeply upset” they have been unable to save it.

In a statement, the governing body of Commonweal Lodge Senior School in Purley said they were “extremely sorry” the school had to close after “nearly a century of excellent education”.

More than 70 girls have been left without a school place after finding out they would not be able to return to Commonweal days before the new term was due to start.

Distruaght students held a protest outside the school yesterday, on what should have been their first day at school, in an attempt to save it.

A past pupil Alice Cole, 18, said she was shocked to hear the school was closing.

She said: “Commonweal strives to create a caring family atmosphere and for many students it becomes a home away from home. In my own case, having lost my mother at a young age, I found the support and genuine care I needed to succeed at Commonweal. The staff always work hard to encourage every girl and many teachers have worked at the school for over a decade.”

Cognita, a national education provider, has bought the junior and infant schools but no buyer has been found for the senior school.

The governors said: “The financial climate and subsequent decline in pupil numbers have made it necessary to consider taking such a drastic step.

“The Governors, Staff, Pupils and Parents are deeply upset that they may not be able to carry on at the school after September.

“The Governors have tried every available avenue to keep the School open but a suitable rescue package has not been identified to date.

“The School has provided an outstanding and happy education to thousands of pupils, since 1916 and will be sadly missed by all involved.”