WALDORF College has closed its doors after ten years of educating 16-24 year-olds in Stroud.

The college, based in the Centre for Science and Art on Lansdown Road, offered an alternative approach to education.

However, over the past three years it has suffered from a decline in student numbers and despite the best efforts of the trustees and staff, the numbers have not picked up enough to be able to afford to keep it open next year without additional financial support.

Caroline Kelly, director of the college, said: "When we found out that our benefactor had decided not to continue to fund the college we applied to another trust for funding.

"But we only heard that they had turned us down in April and by then it was too late to apply elsewhere.

"We had to inform our students immediately and for those who are not graduating this year we are helping to find places somewhere else.

"This has not just affected the present students, their families and staff, but also all the former students and staff and the host families living in the area."

The college will continue to provide short courses from January, while still being based in Lansdown, and will seek alternative funding while.

"I believe that education is an investment in the future and it is important that we continue to try to cater for all the needs of the young people who come through our doors, especially those who do not fit the mainstream approach.

"If they experience frustration, being let down, and are unable to find their place in the world then we can help them." Mrs Kelly added.

A celebration marked ten years of the college last weekend culminating in a closing ceremony.

The ceremony was preceded by a meeting where former students and staff had the opportunity to share their thoughts about Waldorf College and what it meant to them. "For me personally it is a privilege to meet the young people who have been in the College, they are potential for the future, and we don't know what the future holds but is heartening to know that these young people are ready to meet it." Mrs Kelly added.