Spurgeon’s College, one of the UK’s oldest theological institutions, has closed with immediate effect after nearly 170 years of operation, citing insurmountable financial pressures.

The decision was announced by the College’s Board of Trustees on Thursday, who said the institution had “no choice” but to enter the insolvency process following the abrupt termination of a key funding partnership.

“Like many higher education institutions—particularly within the theology sector—Spurgeon’s College has faced significant financial challenges for several years, driven by declining student numbers and an increasingly complex and difficult financial landscape,” the statement read.

The College, which was founded in 1856 by prominent Baptist preacher Charles Haddon Spurgeon, had recently partnered with a charitable foundation that provided critical financial support. The statement noted that this relationship was unexpectedly ended on 21 July, leaving the institution unable to sustain its operations..

“Our immediate priority is to protect the interests of our students and staff as far as possible during this deeply challenging time,” the trustees said. “The trustees, leadership, and staff of Spurgeon’s College have worked tirelessly and faithfully to find a sustainable path forward and avoid this outcome.”

For nearly 170 years, Spurgeon’s College trained thousands of students for Christian ministry and mission work in the UK and abroad, with many alumni and supporters regarding it as a cornerstone of theological education in the Baptist tradition.

The trustees expressed gratitude to all those who have supported the College over its long history and called on the Christian community to pray for guidance during this period of transition.