Summary
Private school fees in the UK increased by 22.6% in January compared to last year. This rise includes a new 20% VAT tax, which has led to concerns about fewer students attending private schools. Some schools have tried to lower fees, not counting the VAT, to help parents manage costs.
Key Facts
- Average private school fees in January were £7,382, including VAT, up from £6,021 the previous year.
- The VAT on private school fees was introduced on January 1st across the UK.
- The government expected fees to rise by about 10% due to the VAT change.
- The ISC represents about 1,400 private schools in the UK and conducts an annual census on fees and pupil numbers.
- The ISC and private schools are also dealing with changes in national insurance and the end of certain tax reliefs.
- Some parents have removed their children from private schools due to increased costs.
- The state school system is expected to accommodate more students if private school numbers decrease.
