A UK-based private school that carries out all of its lessons online has seen a noticeable uptick in demand as controversial legislation adding VAT to school fees finally becomes law.
The Labour government’s pledge to levy a 20% tax on private school fees – first announced in the party’s 2024 election manifesto – has now come into effect, despite outrage from the sector that has culminated in a High Court battle as campaigners scramble to block the legislation.
Experts have previously told The PIE they expect the average independent school fees to increase by 10-15% as schools work to cushion themselves from the hefty financial blow, with worries that the extra expense could lead to a drop in interest from parents – especially those from overseas.
