No Pupil Exodus to State Schools Following VAT on Private Fees
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has indicated that the introduction of a 20% Value Added Tax (VAT) on private school fees has not prompted a substantial movement of students into the state education system. This observation contradicts earlier anticipations that such a tax would lead to a significant number of pupils transferring from private institutions.
Admissions Data Supports Assessment
The Labour government implemented the 20% VAT on private school fees at the beginning of 2025, a change from their previous tax-exempt status. According to newly released admissions data for England, there has been no discernible increase in applications to state schools since this policy took effect. This data suggests that concerns about a mass exodus of pupils into the public sector have not materialized.
Source: Original Article