The decision to close a boarding school for girls with disabilities has been described as a disaster for the pupils and their families.
Salisbury School in Nelson is to close because of its falling roll.
The Public Service Association, which represents 20 staff at the school, said the decision was a cruel one.
Its secretary Erin Polaczuk said the girls needed the security and support the school offered.
"People who work there who are highly specialised in their fields and are providing the good service and good education for these girls, are going to be now looking for jobs and we're also concerned for the fate of the students who'll no longer have the school that is especially set up to cater to their needs."
Ms Polaczuk said the government should reconsider its decision.